The New York Rangers have placed Patrik Nemeth on injured reserve. That means he will be out for at least the next seven days.
According to the NY Post, it’s believed that Nemeth is still dealing with lingering effects after contracting COVID-19 back in December.
Nemeth, 30, has two points in 38 games this season. He last played on January 22, in a 7-3 Rangers win over the Coyotes.
Nemeth on IR means more Jones and Schneider
With Nemeth being out of action, head coach Gerard Gallant is expected to stay with the young defensive paring of Zac Jones and Braden Schneider.
Schneider had another outstanding game against Boston, registering an assist on Chytil’s goal in 17:53 of ice time. His partner, Jones also fared well in his 16:15 of action. They were each a +1 on the night.
“Jonesy came up and played and our (defense) played really good,” Gallant said on Saturday. “Those last couple of games (the defense) played solid hockey. It’s nice to see guys come up and play well. But the whole group played really good together.”
Ryan Lindgren is also impressed with the rookie pairing, which seems akin to his own experience.
“Both of them were just so confident out there,” he said. “Me and Foxy had that when we were rookies playing together, and I think it’s key you’re just building each game and trying to get better and better.”
Marc Staal returns to MSG
The 35 year-old Marc Staal played 13 seasons on Broadway and this will be his first trip back since being traded in 2020.
“It’s strange. It’s different coming in as a visitor for sure,” Staal said this morning via MLIVE. “But such a great building and a lot of great memories here. It’s really fun to be back.”
When the Rangers moved him, Staal was shocked.
“I didn’t have much of a head’s up,” he began. “Got a call, told me I was on my way to Detroit and… I mean it’s surprising and shocking when it happens. This is the only place I’ve been my whole career,” Staal explained. “This has been home for me for a very long time.”
Staal has 8 points in 43 games this season with a +11 rating.
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