No. 1 Star: Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers
The Senators were all over the Rangers on Monday night, outshooting them 39 to 22, but Ottawa couldn't put a single puck past Lundqvist, who posted his 1st shutout of the postseason in a 1-0 win. His biggest save came inside the game's final minute as he stoned Kyle Turris with a kick save on a point blank chance in front:
No. 2 Star: Zdeno Chara, Boston Bruins
Chara was his usual tough, difference-making self in a 4-3 win over the Washington Capitals, playing a team-high 26:29, most of it against Alex Ovechkin. He didn't keep Ovechkin off the scoreboard -- the Russian sniper had a goal and an assist -- but Chara outscored him, which is just as good. The Boston captain had a goal and 2 assists, and what's more, his goal was the game-winner, coming with less than 2 minutes to go in regulation.
No. 3 Star: Andy McDonald, St. Louis Blues
McDonald showed why he led the Blues in points per game during the regular season, leading the offence in an unexpectedly high-scoring game with the San Jose Sharks. The contest featured 4 powerplay goals, and McDonald set up two of them. He added an even-strength tally as well, and the Blues took a 2-1 lead in the series with a 4-3 win. Here's the prettiest Blues' powerplay goal:
Honourable mention: Brian Boyle scored the game-winner for the Rangers midway through the third period, breaking the scoreless tie with a backhander in front:
... Brooks Laich gave the Capitals a goal and 2 assists in a losing effort ... Joe Thornton nearly mounted a comeback for the Sharks, picking up 2 of his 3 assists in the final five minutes versus St. Louis. Carlo Colaiacovo had 3 helpers as well ...
Did you know? Alex Ovechkin's goal allowed him to move into sole possession of 2nd place on the Capitals' all-time playoff goal scoring list. The guy he passed? His own coach, Dale Hunter.
Dishonourable mention: Plenty of funny business Monday in Washington, including Jason Chimera's spearing Brad Marchand in the funny business. And Nicklas Backstrom took a match penalty at his game's end that could see him suspended for game 4. Will the league rescind it?