Whitney's OT goal lifts Canes over Rangers 2-1 Eds: APNewsNow. Hurricanes 2, Rangers 1, OT.

AP Photo MSG102, MSG101 By IRA PODELL AP Hockey Writer NEW YORK (AP) Ray Whitney scored 3:45 into overtime and the Carolina Hurricanes earned a split of their home-and-home series against the New York Rangers with a 2-1 victory on Saturday.

Whitney controlled the puck amid pressure along the left wing boards, moved it to Matt Cullen behind the New York net and then took a return feed in front for his 11th goal. Carolina, which has an NHL-worst 29 points, won on the road for just the third time this season (3-13-4).

Cam Ward made 27 saves, and Tom Kostopoulos staked the Hurricanes to a 1-0 lead in the second period.

Henrik Lundqvist, who appeared to be shaken up after making a save late in regulation, kept the Rangers in it by stopping 17 shots. Lundqvist allowed two goals or fewer for the 11th time in 14 games.

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 01-02-10 1448CST | save this article / add to your favorites list