Concern for Zibanejad growing as absence reaches 2 weeks
Mika Zibanejad last played a hockey game over 2 weeks ago on October 27th. In that game he was absolutely leveled by a borderline headshot from Patrice Bergeron of the Boston Bruins. Mika was looking down at the puck and was completely unprepared for the hit. Bergeron’s shoulder appeared to catch the chest and chin of the Rangers number 1 center, and he hasn’t played since.
Out Again
Early reports coming out of practice today is that Mika did not come out to skate and thus it appears unlikely he will face the Penguins tomorrow. The last update we received from the team and in particular David Quinn is that he is day-to-day and this is mostly a neck injury.
Growing Concern
At this point, the speculation that Mika may have suffered a concussion is a growing concern. The talented pivot suffered at least 5 known concussions early in his career. His last known head injury was November of 2017 after taking a hard hit from Darren Helm of the Detroit Red Wings.
Of course this could be a serious case of whiplash or a stinger which makes it very uncomfortable to move. A hockey player must keep his head on a swivel, so any limitation in movement could lead to further injury. The fact that the Rangers are keeping him out is the right move, regardless of the injury.
Let’s hope coach Quinn gives us a new update today.
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