What's Happening?
The New York Rangers are set to conclude their preseason schedule with a game against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden. The team is currently dealing with injuries to key players, including forward Artemi Panarin, who has been sidelined with an upper-body injury and will miss the entire preseason. Center J.T. Miller, recovering from a lower-body injury, returned to practice in a non-contact jersey. Coach Mike Sullivan expressed optimism about Miller's potential availability for the regular season opener. The Rangers have a 2-2-1 record in the preseason and are focused on avoiding further injuries while finalizing their roster.
Why It's Important?
The preseason finale is crucial for the Rangers as they aim to solidify their lineup and ensure player readiness for the regular season. The absence of Panarin, a key offensive player, highlights the team's need to manage injuries effectively. The performance of prospects and the integration of new players are also under scrutiny as the team seeks to build momentum. The outcome of these decisions will impact the Rangers' competitiveness in the upcoming season, especially in a highly competitive division.
What's Next?
Following the preseason finale, the Rangers will focus on preparing for their 100th season opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The coaching staff will need to make final roster decisions, particularly regarding the inclusion of prospects like Scott Morrow and Gabe Perreault, who were recently sent to the AHL for further development. The team's ability to manage injuries and integrate new talent will be pivotal as they aim to start the season strong.
