New York Rangers Rumors: McDonagh Practices, But Out?

Recent New York Rangers rumors have revolved around defenseman Ryan McDonagh and his availability, or lack thereof, for Game 3 vs. the Pittsburgh Penguins.

New York Rangers rumors recently have all had to do with injuries to players. In Game 2, it was about goaltender Henrik Lundqvist and his availability after taking a stick to the eye from teammate Eric Stall. He was able to get back on the ice for that game and help the Rangers even their series with the Pittsburgh Penguins at one game apiece. Will the Rangers be getting more reinforcements back for Game 3?

Injured defenseman and captain Ryan McDonagh was able to practice with his teammates on Monday, which is an improvement. That was the first time in two weeks McDonagh practed after he injured his wrist two weeks ago. McDonagh was able to skate a little by himself on Sunday, and is improving towards getting back on the ice.

But, despite the clear improvement and a return nearing, Game 3 does not seem to be the time that it will happen. According to coach Alain Vigneault McDonagh is still considered doubtful to take the ice in Game 3, the first of their first round series at home at Madison Square Garden. He added later, “that stranger things have happened,” but the chances of McDonagh getting on the ice tonight seem to be slim.

“I knew he skated on his own yesterday [Sunday]; I watched him a little bit,” Vigneault said. “I did not expect him to skate with the group today, but after discussing with our medical staff they thought it would be a good idea for him to get a practice in and we’ll see how he responds.”

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While McDonagh may have looked good skating, his legs are not the problem. With an injury like the one he has, the Rangers have to make sure that he is able to handle the puck without any problems and be comfortable doing it. Putting him on the ice before he is fully healed and ready to play could just cause an aggravation for the injury and sideline him even longer. But, what the coaching staff saw on Monday seemed to be encouraging.

“He looked fine. Anybody that watched him, he was skating well, he was handling the puck well,” Vigneault said. The Rangers are certainly hoping that he can return sooner than later, as their defensive unit has taken a hit.

In addition to McDonagh, the Rangers also were without Dan Girardi in Game 2. In their places, the Rangers went with two rookies, Brady Skjei and Dylan McIlrath. The duo played in a combined 41 games during the regular season, so the Rangers could use their captain back on the ice as soon as possible.

Next: 5 Players To Watch For In Rangers vs. Penguins Series

To help get some experience on their back line, the Rangers recalled Rafael Diaz from Hartford. The fact the Rangers called up another defenseman makes it seem like McDonagh is truly doubtful despite the encouraging improvement that he is showing.

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New York Rangers Rumors: Ryan McDonagh Practices, But Still Doubtful?

By Kenneth Teape | Apr 19, 2016

Recent New York Rangers rumors have revolved around defenseman Ryan McDonagh and his availability, or lack thereof, for Game 3 vs. the Pittsburgh Penguins.

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