After a fall on the ice during practice on Sunday, Jimmy Vesey exited early and was seen limping to the locker room.
According to head coach Peter Laviolette, Vesey has a lower-body injury and is currently undergoing evaluation.
“It appeared to be relatively harmless,” Laviolette commented.
The 31-year-old Vesey is competing to reclaim his position on the fourth line, a role he occupied for most of the previous two seasons.
Jimmy Vesey, depicted earlier in training camp, left the Rangers’ practice on Sunday due to an injury. Robert Sabo for the NY Post
On Sunday, he was skating alongside Sam Carrick and Matt Rempe before making his way to the locker room.
After beginning last season as a healthy scratch for the first game, Vesey ended up playing in 80 out of 82 games.
During the season, he recorded 13 goals and 13 assists, averaging 12:23 of ice time per game.
The Devils were scheduled to fly to Prague on Sunday for two regular-season matches against the Sabres, leaving them with a somewhat depleted lineup for their home-and-home exhibition series against the Rangers.
Although most key Devils players are expected to compete on Friday and Saturday at O2 Arena, the remainder will face the Rangers on Monday and Tuesday.
“It’s going to be a different situation,” Laviolette noted. “We are still in an evaluation phase. Regardless of the players we decide to play, it remains training camp and a valuable opportunity for assessment. We use it as we have for the first three games and what it will continue to be for the final three games. But certainly, it will feel different since their team has gone overseas.”
Despite the consecutive games, Laviolette mentioned that a few players might participate in both matches.
When asked how he assesses players who are not facing NHL-caliber competition, Laviolette was straightforward about the evaluation process.
“If you consider a player to be that talented, he should be able to dominate,” he explained. “The evaluation continues regardless. He ought to be a top player for your team. If you’re evaluating someone to join your lineup, typically you’ll find them in similar roles and situations, or possibly with increased responsibilities. How well do they perform in that enhanced role? We will utilize this as an evaluation period.”
On Sunday, Victor Mancini took to the ice alongside Adam Fox, filling in for Ryan Lindgren.
The remaining defensive pairings were K’Andre Miller with Jacob Trouba, Zac Jones paired with Braden Schneider, and Connor Mackey alongside Chad Ruhwedel.
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.5016949152542;display:block" decoding="async" loading="lazy" data-modal-image="33455305" width="886" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?w=1024" alt="Victor Mancini, pictured before a preseason game, skated alongside Adam Fox again Sunday." class="wp-image-33455305" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 2000w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=300,200&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=768,512&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=1024,682&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=1536,1024&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=878,585&quality=75&strip=all 878w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=744,496&quality=75&strip=all 744w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=720,480&quality=75&strip=all 720w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=576,384&quality=75&strip=all 576w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=457,305&quality=75&strip=all 457w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=440,293&quality=75&strip=all 440w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=424,282&quality=75&strip=all 424w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=389,260&quality=75&strip=all 389w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/mancini-inset-1-cs.jpg?resize=360,240&quality=75&strip=all 360w, https://nypost.com/wp-
Victor Mancini, seen here before a preseason match, once again skated alongside Adam Fox on Sunday. Corey Sipkin for the NY Post
On Sunday, Adam Edstrom rejoined the Rangers’ main roster, taking turns on the fourth line with Vesey, Carrick, and Rempe.
Concerns for Jimmy Vesey as Rangers Forward Suffers Lower-Body Injury in Practice
In the world of professional hockey, injuries can be an athlete’s worst nightmare. Recently, Jimmy Vesey, a forward for the New York Rangers, encountered a setback during practice due to a lower-body injury. This unfortunate event has raised several concerns among fans, coaches, and analysts alike. This article delves into the implications of Vesey’s injury, potential recovery timelines, and what it means for the Rangers moving forward.
The Nature of the Injury
Jimmy Vesey’s lower-body injury was sustained during a routine practice session. While specific details regarding the severity of the injury have yet to be disclosed, lower-body injuries in hockey can range from minor strains to more serious ligament damage.
Common Types of Lower-Body Injuries in Hockey
- Hamstring Strain: Often caused by sudden movements or overexertion.
- Knee Sprains: Resulting from twisting motions or direct impacts.
- Groin Strain: Common in hockey due to lateral movements.
- Ankle Injuries: Can occur from falls or collisions on the ice.
Potential Recovery Timeline
The recovery timeline for lower-body injuries can vary significantly based on the type and severity of the injury:
| Injury Type | Recovery Time |
|---|---|
| Minor Sprain | 1-3 weeks |
| Moderate Strain | 3-6 weeks |
| Severe Injury | 6 weeks or more |
As it stands, the Rangers’ medical team will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine the best course of action for Vesey. This assessment will be critical in identifying whether he will require rehabilitation or if he can return to the ice sooner than expected.
Impact on the New York Rangers
Jimmy Vesey’s presence on the ice is crucial for the Rangers, and his injury raises several concerns:
- Offensive Strategy: Vesey has been a reliable scorer and playmaker for the team. His absence could impact the team’s offensive dynamics.
- Line Combinations: The coaching staff will need to adjust line combinations, potentially disrupting team chemistry.
- Playoff Aspirations: With the season on the line, losing a key player like Vesey can hinder the Rangers’ quest for a playoff spot.
Potential Line Adjustments
In the wake of Vesey’s injury, the Rangers may consider various adjustments to their lineup. Here’s a look at some potential combinations:
| Current Line | Proposed Adjustment |
|---|---|
| Panarin – Zibanejad – Vesey | Panarin – Zibanejad – Kravtsov |
| Strome – Chytil - Lafrenière | Strome – Chytil – Goodrow |
These adjustments will heavily rely on the players’ adaptability and the coach’s strategic decisions moving forward.
Benefits of Early Recovery and Rehabilitation
Pursuing a proper recovery plan is essential for Jimmy Vesey, not just for his immediate health but for his long-term career as well. Here are some benefits of adhering to a rehabilitation program:
- Reduces the Risk of Reinjury: Following a structured rehab plan minimizes the chances of aggravating the injury.
- Enhances Overall Performance: Proper recovery ensures that an athlete returns to peak physical condition.
- Mental Confidence: Successfully going through recovery can boost an athlete’s confidence when stepping back onto the ice.
First-Hand Experiences: Other Players and Their Comebacks
Historically, many NHL players have faced similar injuries and have successfully navigated their recoveries. Their experiences offer valuable insights into the rehabilitation process:
- Sidney Crosby: After suffering a severe lower-body injury, Crosby took the necessary time off to recover and eventually returned to lead the Penguins to multiple championships.
- Auston Matthews: Matthews dealt with a lower-body injury early in his career but utilized a comprehensive rehab program, returning stronger and more agile.
These examples serve as encouragement for Vesey as he embarks on his recovery journey.
Conclusion
While Jimmy Vesey’s lower-body injury presents significant concerns for the New York Rangers, it is an opportunity for players to step up and showcase their skills. As the team navigates the challenges ahead, fans remain hopeful for Vesey’s quick recovery and return to form. Maintaining a focus on rehabilitation, team adjustments, and learning from past experiences will be critical for both the player and the franchise.
