Watch: Rangers, Panthers bring the physicality to start Game 2 of ECF

Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Final is off to an epic start.

The New York Rangers and Florida Panthers entered the first intermission tied 1-1 following a fast-paced, hit-filled period of playoff hockey.

After posting a goose egg in the Eastern Conference Final opener, the New York Rangers wasted little time striking first in Game 2. Only 4:12 into the first period, Vincent Trocheck broke the scoreless tie, tapping in a layup off a fancy pass from Adam Fox.

Physical play was the story of the opening period. Strong checking led to the Rangers' first goal, and the rough stuff didn't stop after that. Following Trocheck's tally, he was steam-rolled by Panthers forward Matthew Tkachuk, leading to an immediate man advantage for New York.

Overall, the Panthers, who are pretty fond of a hard-checking game, weathered the early Rangers' storm, sometimes illegally.

After responding with the body, Florida answered New York on the scoreboard.

With 1:51 left in the first, forward Carter Verhaeghe scored the Panthers' first powerplay goal since Game 4 of the semifinals against the Boston Bruins, burying a shot past Rangers netminder Igor Shesterkin, knotting the game at a goal apiece.

The Rangers dominated the first half of the opening period with a frantic pace. However, the Panthers stayed calm and continued to play their game, ultimately leading to the equalizer later in the period.

Considering how they've played so far, the Rangers have to be disappointed heading into the second period tied with the Panthers, especially after failing to capitalize on two powerplay opportunities.