Stanley Cup Playoffs: Round 2 Winners and Matchups to Watch

Henrik Lundqvist vs. Braden Holtby

The Rangers and Capitals are facing off for the fifth time in the playoffs since 2009. The teams have split the previous four series, with the Rangers winning their first-round series last season. Braden Holtby is looking to bounce back after allowing four or more goals in three of the final five games of that series.

The two main netminders have impressive resumes in the playoffs. In 97 games, Henrik Lundqvist has a 2.21 goals against average, 92.3 save percentage and 9 shutouts. Holtby has 1.95 goals against average, 93.3 save percentage and 1 shutout in 27 playoff games.

One factor to pay attention to is fatigue. The playoffs are a different animal than the regular season, and the extended season can sneak up on any player. Holtby started a career high 71 games this season and appeared in 73 overall, while Lundqvist missed 23 games after taking a shot attempt to the throat. It can be argued that the injury, gruesome and scary to see happen, gave Lundqvist time off and some rest. King Henrik has started at least 62 games in each season since 2006-07, including all 43 in the lockout-shortened 2012-13 season.

Both teams expect to advance past this round and have gotten this far by winning close games. The Rangers were 4-1 in games decided by one goal, with the Caps earning three wins in four contests. The goaltenders will be looked at in those tight games to once again be a difference, if not the difference, in those types of games.

Keep an Eye on: Mats Zuccarello’s timetable for a return. He plays majority of his time with Rick Nash and Derick Brassard at even strength and on the power play. The diminutive forward’s absence could be a big loss for the Rangers.

numberFire Algorithm Pick: New York Rangers (58.96%)