Rangers vs. Devils: Game 3 Highlights, Twitter Reaction and Analysis

The New York Rangers took a 2-1 series lead in the 2012 Eastern Conference Finals with a 3-0 win over the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center Saturday afternoon.

The Devils dominated for most of the game before allowing the Rangers to score two goals in a two-minute span early in the third period.

Chris Kreider had a phenomenal game and continued to show why he's going to be a future superstar in the NHL. The young rookie scored the second goal for the Rangers and was an offensive threat for much of the third period.

Rangers captain Ryan Callahan's hard work was rewarded with an empty-net goal to finish off the Devils in the closing minutes.

Let's look at a recap of New York's big win on the road in Game 3.

Best Tweets

Adam Proteau of The Hockey News doesn't think Brandon Prust will play in Game 4 because of suspension, and I would have to agree.

"

Dear Brandon Prust: enjoy having the next game off.

— Adam Proteau (@Proteautype) May 19, 2012"

Kevin Allen of USA Today shares with us that New Jersey-born music star Jon Bon Jovi was in attendance to watch this afternoon's game.

"

Jon Bon Jovi is in the house for the Rangers vs. Devils game.

— Kevin Allen (@kausatoday) May 19, 2012"

TSN found a really interesting stat about Rangers rookie Chris Kreider.

"

Kreider: sets NHL record with 5 playoff goals before ever scoring a regular season goal

— THE STATS GUY (@TH2NSTATSGUY) May 19, 2012"

Must-See Highlights

Rangers forward Brandon Prust may face a suspension for this elbow to Devils defenseman Anton Volchenkov.

Rangers rookie Chris Kreider scored his third goal of the series during the third period of Game 3.

Grades for Key Devils Players

Zach Parise: C+

The Devils captain was not able to make an impact on the game offensively and finished the afternoon with a minus-one rating and zero points.

The Devils need more offense from one of their best scorers because goals have been hard to come by against Lundqvist.

Martin Brodeur: B

The Devils veteran played pretty well between the pipes for his team and made several quality saves through the first two periods. He made 19 saves in total for New Jersey.

He cannot be blamed for the Game 3 loss because the New Jersey offense was unable to create enough scoring opportunities against the Rangers.

Grades for Key Rangers Players

Henrik Lundqvist: A

Lundqvist played very well in net for the Rangers and made a number of highlight-reel saves to keep the Devils off the score sheet.

After losing the home-ice advantage in the series, New York needed their star goaltender to rise to the occasion and shine in Game 4, and Lundqvist answered that challenge.

He made 36 saves for the Rangers.

Chris Kreider

The Rangers rookie continued his strong play in the postseason with a goal in Game 3 that gave the Rangers a 2-0 lead that they wouldn't relinquish.

Kreider was a physical force all game and gave the Rangers some much needed scoring in a series that's been dominated by defense and spectacular goaltending.

Deciding Factor: Special Teams

The Rangers penalty kill was outstanding on Saturday afternoon, killing off all five power plays the Devils had. New York was able to capitalize on one of their two power-play chances, which was the difference in the game.

The Devils cannot expect to beat a team that has great goaltending like the Rangers and go 0-5 with the man advantage.

Game MVP: Henrik Lundqvist

Henrik Lundqvist was the primary reason why the Rangers took a 2-1 series lead with a 3-0 Game 3 victory.

He was the team's best penalty killer and his stellar play in net gave the Rangers confidence despite being outplayed through the first part of the game.

What's Next?

The pivotal Game 4 of the series is Monday night at 8:00 p.m. ET on the NBC Sports Network. It will be played at the Prudential Center in New Jersey.

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