Rangers Roundup: Kevin Rooney lands on IR, Kaapo Kakko still weeks away, and more
The New York Rangers have announced that center Kevin Rooney is on IR and is considered week-to-week. In addition, the team has recalled forward Tim Gettinger in response to the news.
Wolf Pack captain, Jonny Brodzinski was also called up on Tuesday. Gerard Gallant has Morgan Barron at his disposal as well. Defenseman Ryan Lindgren, who took a slap shot off the inside of his knee on Wednesday night was given a day off for maintenance.
New York Rangers injury news
Rooney, 28, has 11 points in 51 games this season and has been an integral part of the Blueshirts’ physical fourth line with Ryan Reaves. The injury apparently occurred in the first period, but after a brief shift in the second, he left the game unable to return.
The tenacious checker is on IR with an upper-body injury likely giving Morgan Barron an extended look.
“Week-to-week basically,” Gallant said. “I don’t know much to be honest with you but it’s definitely week-to-week.”
With regards to Kaapo Kakko, he is still weeks away with an apparent wrist injury.
“He’s getting closer but still a ways away,” Gallant updated. “Another few weeks for sure. I don’t have a date. The first time I said to you guys ‘four weeks’ but it’s going to be more than that.”
Kakko, 20, last played on January 21 against the Carolina Hurricanes. Television cameras caught Kakko wincing in a lot of pain and discomfort at the end of the second period as he was flexing his his left arm. He was placed on IR the next day with the hopes of returning after the All-Star Break, that obviously did not turn out to be the case.
The NHL Trade Deadline is March 21st and Gallant thinks that Kakko may be back before that, but he was completely uncertain. Onus on Chris Drury to address the Rangers needs grows everyday.
Related: Chris Drury needs to fix the third line now
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