Kovalev Takes Care of Rangers

PITTSBURGH — Just when the New York Rangers got Eric Lindros back, Theo Fleury disappeared. It added up to another eventful day for them--and another loss to Pittsburgh.

Alexei Kovalev scored three goals, the final two less than a minute apart in the third period, and the Penguins shrugged off Lindros’ return to beat the Rangers, 4-1, Saturday.

It was Kovalev’s third three-goal game this season and included a go-ahead score at 4:33 of the third, only the 16th goal in 163 chances for the Penguins’ league-worst power play.

Lindros returned after sitting out four games because of the seventh concussion of his career. He had a mostly uneventful game, going without a shot in the first period before getting three in a second period in which Pittsburgh killed two five-on-three advantages by the Rangers.

“I thought he was a little rusty,” Ranger Coach Ron Low said. “Obviously, he hasn’t skated since Christmas, and it was a tough night for their line.”

Fleury, Lindros’ linemate, left with 7:37 remaining after being called for his third slashing penalty. He dressed and went to the team bus before the game ended.

“I think he’s a bit frustrated,” Ranger goalie Mike Richter said. “He plays every game as hard as he can and he thrives on his emotions. I think he blew a gasket there, but he’ll be fine. When you play on the edge like that, it makes you a special player, but sometimes you’ve got to reel it in a little.”

Kovalev scored 14:15 into the first period and Radek Dvorak tied the score, 1-1, on a short-handed goal later in the second period.

Kovalev’s go-ahead goal was a seemingly harmless wrist shot from the left point that got by Richter. He made it 3-1 at 5:21 of the third period.

Wayne Primeau scored his third goal of the season late in the period.

Johan Hedberg made 35 saves for the Penguins.