Rangers Roundup: Will Cuylle nets hat trick, playoff picture, and more
New York Rangers prospect Will Cuylle had quite the night to lead the Hartford Wolf Pack to a 6-5 win over the Springfield Thunderbirds.
His third goal to net the hat-trick came on the power play and was the eventual game-winner. The rookie leads the Pack in goals (24) and points (42) in 59 games this season. Cuylle also added an assist to be the named the AHL’s first star of the night.
Captain Jonny Brodzinski assisted on the tally en route to a five point night. He has 40 points in just 38 games this year for the Pack. Hartford remains three points behind the Bridgeport Islanders for the final playoff spot in the division.
Wil Cuylle nets a hat trick
Cuylle, 21, was selected in the second-round of the 2020 Draft by the Blueshirts.
He registered his first goal off a rebound of a Brodzinski shot by parking himself in front of the net.
Cuylle started the comeback with a beautiful goal that held up against a video review. Ryan Carpenter was credited with the primary assist.
The hatty came on the power play off a mad scramble in front. Cuylle used his size and hands put it home.
New York Rangers playoff picture
According to the site Playoff Status, the Rangers magic number to clinch a postseason berth is six points entering tonight.
They also have the New Jersey Devils as their potential first round opponent at 78% and the Carolina Hurricanes at 20%.
How to Watch the New York Rangers in 2023
Patrick Kane milestone
When Patrick Kane picks up his next point, he will take sole possession of second place in NHL all-time scoring for U.S. born players. He’s currently tied with defenseman Phil Housley at 1,232.
Since being acquired by the Rangers, Kane has 3 goals and 7 points in 11 contests.
The superstar forward was also voted the NHL’s best stick-handler by his peers in an NHLPA survey.
There’s rumblings that if the salary cap goes up higher than $1 million and Kane is open to a team friendly deal, he could be brought back for next season.
He will be a UFA in July.
Note: The article has been updated for corrections in spelling and statistical information.
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