Watch: Buffalo Bills' Damar Hamlin shows out at Rangers vs Capitals
Buffalo Bills' safety Damar Hamlin recently made an appearance at the Rangers vs Capitals playoff game, adding a touch of NFL flair to the electrifying atmosphere of NHL postseason action.
The game marked the first-round playoff series between the two teams, a special occasion as they hadn't faced off in the Stanley Cup Playoffs since 2015, with the Rangers also holding the distinction of being the Presidents' Trophy winners.
Hockey insider JP Finlay shared a clip on X (formerly Twitter) showcasing Hamlin's enthusiasm during the game.
"Damar Hamlin at Caps/Rangers," JP Finlay tweeted.
The jumbotron camera captured Hamlin energetically waving and making his signature heart sign in the video.
The NHL's official X account also took note of Hamlin's attendance, acknowledging him alongside fellow attendees Jason Bateman and F. Murray Abraham.
The tweet by the NHL reads:
"Spotted: Damar Hamlin ( @HamlinIsland ), @batemanjason , and F. Murray Abraham taking in the @NYRangers game. #StanleyCup."
New York Rangers won 4-1 vs Washington Capitals in Damar Hamlin's presence
The New York Rangers secured a 4-1 victory over the Washington Capitals in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series. Jimmy Vesey contributed to the win with a goal and an assist each, while Artemi Panarin, Matt Rempe and Chris Kreider also found the net. Barclay Goodrow assisted twice, and Igor Shesterkin made 20 saves for the Rangers.
Washington's Martin Fehervary scored their lone goal, and Charlie Lindgren stopped 27 shots for the Capitals. Despite their recent success, winning three of their last five games, the Capitals struggled to break through the Rangers' defense.
The game saw a slow start in the first period but picked up in the second with four goals. Rempe opened the scoring for the Rangers, followed quickly by Panarin's goal. Vesey extended the lead, and Fehervary responded for the Capitals.
The Rangers' penalty kill held strong, limiting the Capitals' opportunities during power plays. Alex Ovechkin, a key player for Washington, was notably shut down with no shots on goal.
Kreider's late goal sealed the victory for the Rangers, extending their winning streak and setting a strong tone for the series. With Game 2 ahead, both teams will look to make adjustments for the next matchup in what promises to be an intense playoff battle.