The Rangers have struggled of late, going 1-4-1 in their last six as they suffered through the loss of several forwards. As gamely as the team played, it’s been clear that the likes of Timothy Gettinger, Vinni Lettieri and Steven Fogarty are still works in progress rather than regular NHLers who can contribute.
Fogarty is expected to remain in the line-up for at least one more game, but the Rangers will begin to welcome their players back with the return of Vladislav Namestnikov to the line-up tomorrow. Namestnikov has been out for 11 days after taking a heavy hit in the 4-2 victory over the Senators back on October 26th. The veteran Russian went through post concussion protocol, and with the Rangers having been off since last Sunday, it has afforded him some extra recovery time.
Fellow injured forwards Mats Zucarello and Pavel Buchnevich have both practiced in regular jerseys this week, though likely will be watching from the sidelines for one more game at least. Zuccarello, who has played just twice since going down with a groin injury on November 6th, has been rotating in, but was skating as an extra this morning.
Meanwhile Buchnevich, who broke his hand on November 10th, may be still a game or two away to ensure that the bone is fully healed.
Even defenseman Adam McQuaid, who hasn’t played since October 25th, has begun skating again. The 32 year old remains in a non-contact jersey, but could be playing within the next two weeks. Only Cody McLeod, who broke his hand on November 21st, remains off the ice, and Matt Beleskey looks set to play his second game of the year in his stead.
CAR
PIT
CBJ