Richards Scores Twice as Rangers Beat Hurricanes

Brad Richards scored twice and Martin Biron, a last-minute replacement for Henrik Lundqvist, made 27 saves as the New York Rangers beat the Carolina Hurricanes 4-2 on Tuesday.

New York's top line had a stellar night. Marian Gaborik also scored and Carl Hagelin had a goal and assisted on both of Richards' goals as they combined for four goals and nine points.

The Rangers took advantage of a soft part in the schedule to extend their winning streak to two after having dropped three in a row. The wins over the New York Islanders and the Hurricanes, two teams unlikely to make the playoffs, followed a three-game losing streak.

The victory extended the Rangers lead in the Atlantic Division to six points over Pittsburgh.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)