Rangers Roundup: NHL Hub City Updates, Igor Shesterkin back in NY, and more

Anthony Scultore Updated: Jun 23, 2020

The NHL has contacted several cities in Pittsburgh, Dallas, Columbus, and Minnesota to tell them they are out of the running as a potential hub city. According to several hockey insiders the six remaining teams are as follows; Vegas, Chicago, Toronto, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Los Angeles. It was also learned today that New York was investigated but that was dropped fairly quickly.

Vegas, LA, Chicago, Edmonton, Vancouver, Edmonton are remaining options for NHL hub cities. Was told in e-mail exchange with Bill Daly that, "New York was explored." But creating and maintaining bubble was likely unattainable.
— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) June 23, 2020

Igor Shesterkin back in New York

Rangers goalie, Igor Shesterkin travelled up from Florida and is going through the same return to play protocols as Pavel Buchnevich. They are expected to join their fellow teammates at the MSG Training Facility later this week. Kaapo Kakko and Alexandar Georgiev are said to be arriving this Friday.

Pavel Buchnevich and Igor Shesterkin are in New York. Both are observing RTP protocol and not currently skating with the small group working at the Rangers practice facility. Both are expected to be cleared to participate later this week.
— Colin Stephenson (@ColinSNewsday) June 23, 2020

NHL Expands Phase 2 On-Ice Limits

When Buchnevich and Shesterkin hit the ice at the training facility this week, they will be enjoying more than just a few teammates with them. Starting today, up to 12 players can be at the training center at one time. Coaches can be there as well.

Effective tomorrow, the NHL will allow Phase 2 groups to be expanded to 12 players for on-ice sessions. Those had been limited to six skaters apiece since small-group workouts began in team facilities on June 8.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) June 22, 2020