NHL Playoff TV Schedule 2012: What to Watch for in Rangers vs. Capitals Game 7

The New York Rangers and Washington Capitals are getting set to do battle in an epic Game 7 to determine the rights to face off against the New Jersey Devils in the Eastern Conference Finals.

This showdown will happen on Saturday, May 12, at 7:30 pm, and can be watched on the NBC Sports Network.

Things seemed bleak for Washington until they broke Game 6 wide open early and held on for a 2-1 victory. They have a chance to capitalize on that momentum and advance.

New York will be looking to turn the tides and use the home ice to their advantage.

Let’s take a look at some keys to the now best-of-one series.

Power Play

Bad penalties may have cost New York a chance at winning Game 6. They gave up a near-instantaneous goal because of a tripping penalty to start things off, and Alexander Ovechkin made the most of it.

The Rangers spent 10 minutes in the box compared to just six for the Caps. The team with the best shot to win is the team that can draw more PIM against their opponent in Game 7 and then make the most of those opportunities.

Giveaways

New York had 18 giveaways in Game 6 compared to just nine by Washington. That seriously hurt the team and gave them fewer chances to succeed in the offensive zone. Even though the Rangers had eight more total shots, the Capitals had much better opportunities and puck control.

Scoring First

Putting the first puck in the net will make a major difference for both teams in Game 7.

If NY does it, a rocking Madison Square Garden audience will lift the team to immeasurable heights and get them in the zone to continue putting in goals.

Washington will be able to silence the crowd and stay focused if they can beat and rattle Henrik Lundqvist in the early portions of the game.