Avery Scratched By Rangers, Capitals Lead On Early Short-Handed Goal

The New York Rangers scratched Sean Avery for game five against the Washington Capitals on a night they could end the first round playoff series. Aaron Voros dressed and Lauri Korpikoski took Avery's place on the first line.

The controversial Rangers winger picked up seven penalties in the past two games, including a misconduct. Rangers GM Glen Sather made it clear the NHL did not suspend Avery, according to the New York Times.

Scott Gomez took a slashing penalty at the 1:16 mark of the first period that was not what you would call a good penalty. He was not benched when he got out of the penalty box.

The Capitals scored a short-handed goal in the first couple of minutes of the game. It was their first shot of the game. The goal by Matt Bradley was a good one.

Minutes later, the Rangers took another penalty. They got caught with too many men on the ice.

The Capitals scored the second goal shortly after to take a 2-0 first period lead. Bradley scored his second goal of the night.

Mike Green also got a goal, but it was reviewed and waived off as it was batted in with a high stick.

The Rangers stellar goalie, Henrik Lundqvist, did not look good on the second goal.

Mark Bradley scored just five goals during the regular season but now has more goals than Alex Ovechkin in this series.

Avery has been called many things, including the Rangers' lucky rabbit's foot, and it looks like they have no luck at the start of this game.

The Rangers managed 3 shots against the Caps in the first period.