The Rangers might kick off the season on October 9 without one of their top-four defensemen.
Ryan Lindgren is projected to be out for several weeks due to an upper-body injury, which he likely incurred during a retaliatory fight against Islanders defenseman Scott Mayfield in Tuesday night’s exhibition at Madison Square Garden.
The Rangers will be without Ryan Lindgren to start the 2024 season. Robert Sabo for NY Post
The altercation was instigated by Lindgren, who was responding to Mayfield’s hit on Filip Chytil. However, Mayfield prevailed in the fight, landing several uppercuts on Lindgren toward the end.
While Chytil was able to return shortly thereafter, Lindgren’s night ended in the first period of the Rangers’ 6-4 win.
“It’s always challenging to lose players,” head coach Peter Laviolette remarked after practice on Wednesday at MSG Training Center. “A player like Lindy is difficult to replace. He plays a gritty game for us and is a crucial part of our team.”
The issue with relying on a heart-and-soul defenseman like Lindgren, who plays with such intensity, is clear.
Nonetheless, the six-year veteran might not hold such a pivotal role if he didn’t compete in the manner that he does.
His Hockey Reference nickname is “The Warrior,” after all.
Lindgren (not pictured) sustained the injury after an altercation with the Islanders’ Scott Mayfield (24). Noah K. Murray for NY Post
Despite consistently being part of the Rangers’ lineup since the 2020-21 season, the 26-year-old defenseman has not yet completed a full 82-game season due to various injuries over the years.
Out of the six games he missed last season, two were single-game absences, and he was sidelined for a four-game stretch as well.
In the previous season, Lindgren missed a total of 19 games due to injury, including an 18-game stretch in which he returned for one game before being out for another six games.
This is partly the reason why Lindgren was given only a one-year extension worth $4.5 million this offseason.
“I don’t want to see players get hurt,” Laviolette stated when asked about Lindgren’s fight in a preseason game. “No one wants to lose players; it’s never a good situation. He’s a vital part of our team, our core, and our leadership group. His play is essential, and those parts are hard to replace.”
In light of Lindgren’s situation, the prospects of Connor Mackey or Ben Harpur making the Rangers’ roster out of training camp have notably increased, especially since both are left-handed.
Rangers defenseman Ryan Lindgren (55) and New York Islanders defenseman Scott Mayfield (24) engage in a fight. Noah K. Murray-NY Post
Right-handed defenseman Chad Ruhwedel remains the leading candidate for the seventh defenseman role.
Even though he has experience on both sides, the Rangers are likely to prioritize a left-shot defenseman.
This scenario leaves Victor Mancini as a potential dark horse. Mancini, a right-handed shot, has impressed during this preseason and received another practice opportunity with the main group on Wednesday.
“It’s training camp now, so everyone is in contention,” Laviolette noted. “Just like in the regular season, when a player gets injured, even outside of training camp, players in Hartford are working hard to ensure they are considered when we need to fill a vacancy or replace someone. Many individuals are still striving to demonstrate they can occupy that spot.”
Rangers’ Ryan Lindgren Expected to Miss Start of Season with Injury After Fight
The New York Rangers are facing a challenging situation as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season. Star defenseman Ryan Lindgren is expected to miss the start of the season due to an injury sustained during a recent fight. This development raises several concerns for the team and its fans, as Lindgren has been a crucial player for the Rangers.
Understanding Ryan Lindgren’s Role on the Team
Ryan Lindgren plays a vital role in the Rangers’ defensive line. Known for his physical style of play and strong defensive skills, Lindgren has become a fan favorite and a key component of the Rangers’ success. In the previous season, he recorded:
- 2 goals and 15 assists
- Average ice time of 19 minutes per game
- A plus/minus rating of +12
His ability to play significant minutes and contribute both defensively and offensively makes his potential absence a significant blow to the team.
The Injury: Details and Impact
The injury occurred during a training camp scrimmage when Lindgren engaged in a fight with a teammate. While fights are not uncommon in hockey, the circumstances of this particular incident led to an unforeseen injury. Reports suggest that Lindgren has sustained a lower body injury that requires time to heal.
Injury Timeline
According to the latest updates from the Rangers’ coaching staff, Lindgren will be evaluated regularly, but current estimates suggest he could miss:
| Injury Severity | Expected Return |
|---|---|
| Minor | 1-2 weeks |
| Moderate | 2-4 weeks |
| Severe | 4+ weeks |
As the Rangers prepare for the season opener, they will monitor Lindgren’s recovery closely. The organization has not confirmed the exact nature of the injury, but fans are anxiously awaiting updates.
Possible Alternatives for the Rangers
With Lindgren sidelined, the Rangers must consider adjustments to their defensive lineup. Here are several alternatives that the coaching staff might explore:
- K’Andre Miller: A promising young defenseman who has shown significant growth and could step up in Lindgren’s absence.
- Braden Schneider: Another young talent who can fill the void and provide stability on the blue line.
- Veteran Addition: The Rangers might look to add a veteran defenseman through a trade or free agency to provide experience and depth.
Player Insights: Team and Fan Reactions
Following the news of Lindgren’s injury, both teammates and fans have expressed their concern and support. According to team captain Jacob Trouba, Lindgren’s leadership and presence will be missed on the ice:
“Ryan is a warrior. We all know he’ll put in the work to come back strong. We just need to rally and support each other in the meantime.”
Fans are equally supportive and have taken to social media platforms to express their well-wishes for Lindgren’s swift recovery. The hashtag #GetWellLindgren has been trending, showcasing the strong bond between the player and the fanbase.
Benefits of a Strong Defensive Line
Keeping a healthy and cohesive defensive unit is crucial for any NHL team. Here are some advantages of having a solid defense:
- Puck Possession: Strong defensemen help maintain puck possession, allowing for sustained offensive pressure.
- Goal Prevention: An effective defense reduces scoring opportunities for the opposing team, leading to better overall team performance.
- Team Morale: A reliable defensive pairing boosts team confidence, especially during tight games.
Case Study: Previous Season’s Injuries
In the previous season, several NHL teams faced similar situations where key players were injured early in the season. Analyzing their approaches provides insight into how the Rangers might cope:
| Team | Player | Injury Duration | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boston Bruins | Charlie McAvoy | 4 weeks | Struggled early but recovered strongly |
| Toronto Maple Leafs | Auston Matthews | 2 weeks | Team maintained performance |
| Vegas Golden Knights | Max Pacioretty | 6 weeks | Had to adjust lines significantly |
First-Hand Experience: Overcoming Injuries
In the world of professional sports, injuries are an inevitable part of the game. Players often share their recovery journeys, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience and effective rehabilitation. One notable example is Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning, who overcame multiple injuries and made a triumphant comeback, leading his team to success.
Stamkos attributes his recovery to:
- Dedicated physical therapy
- Support from teammates and coaches
- A positive mindset and determination
Such stories serve as motivation for injured players like Lindgren, illustrating that with the right approach, a return to peak performance is achievable.
Practical Tips for Fans and Supporters
As fans rally behind Ryan Lindgren, here are some ways to show support and remain engaged with the team during his recovery:
- Stay Informed: Follow official team channels for updates on Lindgren’s recovery and the team’s performance.
- Engage on Social Media: Use hashtags like #GetWellLindgren to show solidarity and support.
- Attend Games: Show up and cheer for the team; your presence can boost morale.
Conclusion
Ryan Lindgren’s expected absence at the start of the season presents challenges for the New York Rangers. However, with the right adjustments and support from teammates and fans, the team can navigate this period and emerge stronger. Keeping an eye on Lindgren’s recovery will be crucial, as his return could significantly impact the Rangers’ success this season.
