Martin St. Louis’ Return To The Lineup And First-Rounder Added To Fold

On April Fool’s Day, the New York Rangers gave its fans a bit of good news

Martin St. Louis’s Return in Minnesota

On the team’s official twitter account (@NYRangers), it was announced that Martin St. Louis would return for the Rangers game against Devan Dubnyk and the Minnesota Wild.

St. Louis had been out of the lineup due to a knee injury, suffered late in a game against the Florida Panthers back on March 15th. The good thing was that it was not serious enough for any type of surgery.

When he returns to the lineup, he may find himself on the third line with Kevin Hayes and Carl Hagelin. That is worth taking a look at. The veteran playing alongside one of the Rangers more impactful player as of late, and a speedy left winger who has been making plays with his feet.

New York Rangers

The timing of St. Louis’ return could not have been better. The Rangers have clinched a playoff spot, Henrik Lundqvist is back in net, and the team has been struggling with their recent play before last night’s win.

So will his return to the lineup make an impact for the team? I’d venture to say yes, but not a dramatic impact in the terms of more scoring. Though, his offense will be a welcomed addition. St. Louis is third on the team in goals (20) and fourth in assists (27).

Just his presence in the lineup should lift the team’s spirits. It’s one more body to add to their depth, in preparations for the post season.

However, a veteran of his abilities is a always a nice luxury to have. A play-maker and sniper rolled up into one.

Rangers sign 2012 first-round draft choice Brady Skjei

The Rangers weren’t done yet.

Brady Skjei (pronounced Shea) passed up his senior year at the University of Minnesota to play professionally.

It is hard to say if Skjei will make any type of impact for the Rangers this season. He could be called up from the Hartford Wolfpack of the AHL, to see what the kid can do.

But there are other options to help with the depth. Conor Allen, immediately, comes to mind. He has experience at the NHL level that would be better served than bringing in Skjei.

Also, the team is already loaded at the left defense position. There appears to be no room for the player, if the intention is to add him to the playoff roster.

But, Skjei is another player general manager Glen Sather can cross of his list of players to sign.

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• Rangers’ Roster Chatter: Who’s Making the Cut and Who’s in the Penalty Box?
• Jacque Plante Trade Tree Between the Rangers and Canadiens
• These Rangers must learn Peter Laviolette’s ropes before they can fly

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