The New York Rangers defeated the New Jersey Devils, 3-0, Monday night in Game 1 of the NHL Playoff Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden. The Rangers lead the best-of-seven series, 1-0.

The game was scoreless through two periods before the Rangers broke the game open in the final period. Dan Girardi scored the game's first goal just 53 seconds into the final period off an assist from Chris Kreider. Kreider recorded his second point of the night 11 minutes later, scoring on a power play to put the Rangers up 2-0. Video of Kreider's goal is below.

Artem Anisimov capped the Rangers' scoring with a 2-on-1 empty-netter with just under 1:30 to go in the game.

Goaltender Henrik Lundqvist was outstanding in net for the Rangers, making 21 saves to earn the shutout. Martin Brodeur made 25 saves for the Devils.

Game 2 will be played Wednesday night at Madison Square Garden beginning at 8 p.m. ET.

For more on the Rangers visit Blueshirt Banter. For more on the Devils visit In Lou We Trust.