Rangers Rookie Will Cuylle Scores Game-Winning Goal
Rangers rookie winger Will Cuylle hadn’t scored in 10 games, but Peter Laviolette, the team’s coach, never saw a drop in the newcomer’s effort level.
After snapping a 3-3 tie in the second period and propelling the lead to a 6-5 victory over the Sharks at the Garden, Cuylle’s first goal since Nov. 7 made a huge difference. The rookie’s effort has been consistent, prompting praise from Laviolette who was impressed by the young player’s determination.
Cuylle received a pass from Nick Bonino and scored his fourth of the season for a 4-3 game with 3:57 remaining in the second period.
Jonathan Quick, the veteran backup, allowed five goals on 28 shots but remained unbeaten in regulation in his first season with the Blueshirts, improving to 7-0-1 over nine appearances.
Vincent Trocheck, the veteran center, leads the NHL in faceoff percentage at 64.1 percent after winning 15 of 24 against the Sharks. Trocheck has also been leading the Rangers’ second line with six goals and 16 assists after recording five points in two wins this weekend against the Predators and the Sharks.
The Rangers recalled winger Anton Blidh from AHL Hartford as lineup insurance. Blidh skated in pregame warm-ups, but the same 12 forwards dressed against the Sharks.
