(Newark) Chris Kreider scored another brace and the New York Rangers won 5-1 for the second time in three days on Thursday, taking a 2-0 series lead against the New Jersey Devils.
Kreider hit the mark 6:03 apart in the second period, on the power play.
He had also scored twice as a curtain raiser in the series.
Patrick Kane was instrumental in each of his goals on Thursday, before scoring himself at 6:34 in the third period, on a breakaway.
Kane had his ninth career playoff three-pointer. He’s deadlocked with Chris Chelios ranked fourth in American history. They are second only to Kevin Stevens (13), Craig Janney (11) and Joe Pavelski (10).
Kaapo Kakko and Vladimir Tarasenko were the other goalscorers for Rangers.
Adam Fox had two assists, after getting four on Tuesday.
Igor Shesterkin made 22 saves. He only gave in to Erik Haula and that with Rangers one man short in the first period.
Vitek Vanecek stopped 25 shots.
Madison Square Garden will be the scene of Games 3 and 4 on Saturday and Monday.