Sunday, the New York Rangers struck first with a three-goal, second-period barrage in a little more than two minutes to take control and open the playoffs impressively while ignoring most attempts by the Washington Capitals to physically engage them.

The Florida Panthers are 5-1 in NHL playoffs series in which they have won the opener.

Shoring up the defense will likely be a focus for both the visiting Colorado Avalanche and the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday night in Game 2 of their first-round Stanley Cup playoff series.

The Nashville Predators saw how quickly momentum can be lost in their playoff opener against the Vancouver Canucks on Sunday.