The Rangers play their third preseason, and second against Boston, tonight at MSG. New York rallied with five goals in the third to defeat the Isles 6-4 on Tuesday. Last Sunday, they dropped their practice schedule opener 3-2 to the B’s in Boston. The Blueshirts are next off until Monday when they face the Devils in New Jersey.
First, the injuries. Artemi Panarin, who missed most of the third period Tuesday with an injury, returned to practice today. He is fine and should play at least one of the last three preseason games. Ryan Lindgren though will be sidelined weeks with what is believed to be a concussion. His head hit the ice after taking an upper cut to the face from Scott Mayfield in their fight Tuesday. With Lindgren sidelined, Victor Mancini has an even better chance to break camp with the team.
Mancini has played the right side in the minors but noted today he has experience on the left side. I am hoping he gets some time with Adam Fox there to see if the duo can mesh while Lindgren out. An additional factor is that Lindgren will be a UFA after the season and the build up of nicks and injuries could tip the scales on if New York wants to bring him back. If that happens, a replacement will be needed, and it’s possible that could be someone in-house.
Likely lines tonight with picture representation of roster below:
Kreider-Zibanejad-Smith
Cuylle-Chytil-Kakko
Erne-Brodzinski-Othmann
Vesey-Carrick-Edström
Mackey-Fox,
Miller-Trouba,
Jones-Mancini
Quick
Domingue
Adam Edstrom has been impressive far and looks to build on his success. Brennan Othmann admitted that he didn’t play well the other night with “more talent players.” He is moved down a line and will need to show that he belongs with a likely other round of cuts forthcoming shortly. Adam Erne gets a chance to price he warrants a fourth line spot, though I expect he will star the season at Hartford.
The defense to me is the focus tonight. Can Mancini continue to open eyes and force his way on the roster? Is Connor Mackey next in line, the possible event d-man or in Hartford to open the year with Lindgren sidelined? Zac Jones looks like almost a lock to open the year as the original sixth d-man. Another strong game would solidify that view.
