Henrik Lundqvist return date against Kings not adding up
Lundqvist (Getty)
The Hockey News published their power rankings yesterday. Ken Campbell included in his article that a source close to the Rangers are targeting a March 24th return date for Henrik Lundqvist. While this is welcome news, it may not add up.
A look at the Rangers schedule (including today), shows they will play 3 games in 7 days. At first glance it appears like there is enough time for Lundqvist to practice but that is only if he is cleared to start today.
Now, there may be 7 days before the L.A. Kings game on the 24th (Tuesday), but the Rangers have a back-to-back this weekend, meaning Monday there will be no practice. In reality, the Blueshirts may only have today and Friday to practice as they are scheduled to have off on Thursday.
The last time Alain Vigneault was asked about Lundqvist he said that Henrik’s workouts were intensifying. That is certainly great news, but he also made it clear that Lundqvist would need some full practices before playing.
Which leads to another possible issue with March 24th. If he were cleared today and practiced with the team this week, why wouldn’t he take one of the back to backs this weekend?
Listen, I don’t doubt for a second that Henrik is close to a return. Also, The Hockey News isn’t some anonymous rumor site on the internet, so they have credibility. If it isn’t next week against L.A., it is likely soon thereafter. Either way, the King seems close to returning to his throne.
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