The Blackhawks reporter attacks Artemi Panarin in an online statement.

This win breathes new life into their playoff hopes, turning what seemed to be a straightforward series into a suspenseful showdown.

The Rangers, often characterized by their sharp execution, appeared uncharacteristically disorganized.

Mark Lazerus of The Athletic didn't hold back, pinpointing former Blackhawks winger Artemi Panarin's performance as particularly lackluster.

Panarin, usually a key scorer for the Rangers, was left searching for his form, failing to make a mark on the scoreboard. His struggles were highlighted by a meager one shot on goal and a concerning -3 plus/minus rating throughout the game, which can be viewed in further detail on his social media at

On a night where few shined, Will Cuylle, Barclay Goodrow, and Alexis Lafreniere managed to edge their names onto the scoring sheet, bringing a glimmer of hope to the Rangers' lineup. However, their efforts were overshadowed by the team's overall disjointed play, leaving fans and critics alike questioning their playoff viability.

The spotlight, or perhaps the scrutiny lamp, has been especially harsh on Panarin. Known for his offensive prowess rather than defensive diligence, last night's game might serve as a catalyst for a deeper exploration into a more balanced two-way game, akin to what stars like Auston Matthews have mastered.

His teammate, Vinnie Trocheck, also faced criticism, with a performance marked by a -2 plus/minus and a minimal impact on the game's flow.

With the series now unexpectedly extended, the Rangers face a critical juncture. The team must harness the kind of energetic and effective play demonstrated by Panarin back on May 9th, where he notched a 2-point game.

It's this level of performance that the Rangers desperately need to rally and advance in their quest for the Stanley Cup.

As the Hurricanes gear up for the next game, their newfound momentum could prove pivotal. The Rangers, meanwhile, are tasked with not only refining their strategy but also reigniting the formidable spirit needed to secure a series victory. What was once viewed as a potential sweep has now transformed into a test of resilience and adaptation for both teams.