Rangers’ Zucarella’s First NHL Goal Is OT Winner Over Carolina

Added on Jan 06, 2011 by J Merrill in

NHL

Lucky or not Mats Zuccarello first goal was what the New York Rangers needed to get the overtime win over the Carolina Hurricanes. It was a perfect shot that beat a top shelf goaltender, and no one but Zuccarello thought it was lucky. Zuccarello was probably just being humble, but he said he was just happy to help his squad. He said of the goal “I tried to get it high. Let’s just say it was not lucky. It’s unbelievable. Not only to get my first goal but to win it for my team, it’s a great feeling.” The Rangers picked him up during the summer after his performance in the Winter Olympics, but he spent most of the season so far in the AHL. In six games he has 1 goal and 2 assists. His game winner went in at 3 minutes of the OT frame.

Brandon Dubinsky says his talent is infectious, and will eventually force everyone to step it up. He said of the new comer, “Not just tonight, we’ve been seeing it for a few games. I think he’s a good player. He’s definitely going to help our team. He’s got so much talent and ability and if he keeps his legs moving the way he has the last few games, he’s going to be really special for us. I think the best part about him is he’s always asking questions. He just wants to learn.”

Rangers Coach John Tortella said he hopes Zucarello can keep his momentum going. He said of his young star, “You hope he scores another one. He is a confident kid. Creative people need that. He should feel good about it. We got the two points we needed.”

Hurricanes coach Paul Maurice said he thought his team made a good showing against a tough team, but he had a lot of positive things to say about Eric and Marc Staal. He said of Staal brothers “Aside from the goaltenders, the next-best players have the same last name. I think he’s one of the best defensive defensemen in the game. Marc Staal is a dominant, physical force that can jump up in the play. Two powerful men playing against each other and two great goaltenders. Those four guys alone are worth the price of admission.”

Henrik Lundqvist had 31 saves in the game, and was able to hold off the Hurricanes so Mats could get the winner. He said he knew it would be a close game, and he was trying to remain calm. He said “The pressure’s on, but I don’t mind it. Halfway through I knew it was going to be a tight game, a low-scoring game. So it was important to stay focused. I felt like the first goal would be important.”

The New York Rangers (23-15-3,49pts), who are now 3rd in Atlantic Division, will face the Dallas Stars(24-13-4, 52pts) on Friday. The Carolina Hurricanes (18-15-6,42pts), who are now 4th in Southeast Division, will face the Florida Panthers (18-18-2, 38pts) on Friday.