## Artemi Panarin's Brace Leads Rangers to Victory Over Islanders in Battle of New York
### Panarin Shines with Two Goals
In a thrilling Battle of New York, the Rangers emerged victorious over the Islanders thanks to a stellar performance from Artemi Panarin. The Russian winger notched two goals, including the game-winner, to guide his team to a 4-2 win.
### A Tightly Contested Match
The game was a closely fought affair, with both teams exchanging blows throughout. The Islanders struck first with a goal from Anthony Beauvillier, but the Rangers responded with a power-play goal from Chris Kreider.
Just minutes into the second period, Panarin tied the game with a wrister from the slot. The Islanders regained the lead through Casey Cizikas, setting the stage for Panarin's heroics.
### Panarin's Game-Winner
Late in the third period, with the game still tied at 2-2, Panarin pounced on a loose puck and fired a shot past Islanders goaltender Semyon Varlamov. The Rangers held on for dear life, with Igor Shesterkin making several key saves in the final minutes to secure the victory.
### Other Notable Performances
Besides Panarin, Kreider had a strong night with a goal and an assist. Shesterkin was solid in goal, stopping 26 of 28 shots. For the Islanders, Varlamov made 28 saves but couldn't prevent the loss.
### Playoff Implications
The win gives the Rangers a 1-0 lead in their best-of-seven series against the Islanders. Game 2 will be played on Friday night at Madison Square Garden.