Lightning vs. Rangers: Game 2 Live Score, Highlights for 2015 NHL Playoffs

Tampa Bay 6, New York 2 (Series Tied at 1-1)

Tyler Johnson recorded the first-ever playoff hat trick in Tampa Bay Lightning franchise history during his team's 6-2 triumph at Madison Square Garden in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Final. 

Johnson opened the scoring on a short-handed goal during a penalty-ridden first period. Chris Kreider leveled the score three minutes later, but Johnson had the perfect answer in the form of a power-play strike just over 11 minutes into the first. 

The top scorer in the league throughout the Stanley Cup playoffs tapped in the puck during a scrum in front of the net to complete his hat trick in the second period. 

Derek Stepan pulled the Rangers within one on an interesting play that started behind the net. Stepan purposely played the puck off Braydon Coburn, who was standing in the crease. The second New York goal of the contest ignited the home fans at Madison Square Garden before things went south for the Rangers. 

Down by a goal in the third period, Rick Nash and Jesper Fast were denied in quick succession by Ben Bishop at the right post. After the Lightning received two massive denials from their netminder, they proceeded to score on three more occasions. 

Alex Killorn pounded the fourth Tampa Bay goal into a wide open net after Victor Hedman delivered him with a terrific pass from the left point. 

Before Killorn scored his second late in the third stanza, Steven Stamkos found the back of the net on a deflection. 

The series will now turn its attention to Amalie Arena, where the two teams will face off in Game 3 on Wednesday night. 

Follow Joe on Twitter @JTansey90.