Rangers Practice Update: Dorsett Scratched, Miller In. Zuccarello Skates!
The Rangers ended their final practice before heading into there game tomorrow against the defending Stanley Cup Champion Chicago Blackhawks at Madison Square Garden.
Callahan Sighting
The main spotlight focus was on Rangers captain, and pending free agent Ryan Callahan. Yes, he did participate in practice. Yes, he skated with the team. Yes, Alain Vigneault has him penciled in as the second line right winger, like he normally is with Brad Richards and Carl Hagelin.
Nothing new to report on the whole trade or resign front though. All we know is that the plan from Callahan’s agent Steve Bartlett plans on reconnecting with the team so he has a better understanding on what’s happening.
Lundqvist to Start in Philly
After finding out yesterday that Cam Talbot would be getting the nod tomorrow night against the Blackhawks, many were wondering when we would see our silver medal goaltender in action again. Fear not Ranger fans, as it has been confirmed that Lundqvist will start Sunday against the Flyers.
In this rough stretch to start things back up again, having a mentally rested and healthy Lundqvist is all but important for this teams success. There is a good chance that win number 300 will be at home. Whether it be against the Bruins on Sunday or Wednesday against the Maple Leafs is the next question. Vigneault wouldn’t go further than Saturday’s game.
Dorsett out; Miller In
In a way to generate offense, and to fill the void for the injured Mats Zuccarello Vigneault decided to go with the recent call up of J.T. Miller instead of going with the newly healthy Derek Dorsett.
What will Miller bring? Offensive upside something that Dorsett wouldn’t be able to bring. While its good that this team is getting healthy, the team did not need to replace a fourth line grinder at this time.
Make sure you read over FTR’s Wolfpack Contributor Will Cullen’s stuff about the recent play of the Wolfpack, he has mentioned recently about the play of Miller and how he’s been more consistent offensively. In his most recent 18 game stint with the Wolfpack, Miller has 3 goals, and 14 assists for 17 points in that span.
The Hobbit Skates Again
For the first time since learning about the small fracture in his hand, Rangers forward Mats Zuccarello skated prior to practice with Henrik Lundqvist and Cam Talbot. While still 2-3 weeks out, it’s good seeing Mats back on the ice, staying in shape as he waits for the small fracture to heal.
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