New York will be without both Artemi Panarin and K’Andre Miller tonight, as they meet the Devils in their first game since last Friday. Panarin was close to rejoining the team, but they have decided to hold him out another game, and likewise it appears Miller could be out just for tonight’s game.
With three straight losses, including two by shutout, it’s not ideal for them to be without their leading offensive player, and one of their top four defensemen, but they could have a modest advantage over the Devils, who have not played in over two weeks, following the greater part of their team being placed on COVID protocols.
Colin Blackwell will again fill in for Artemi Panarin, following his return from injury in Friday’s 1-0 loss to the Bruins, while Brendan Smith returns to the defense after missing several games following a heavy hit back on February 1st. Smith has been practicing with the team for the last few days, and was ready to return.
With Miller’s absence tonight, the Rangers now only have 9 players who will have appeared in all 14 games, with 26 having dressed for the team so far, this season.
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