As we prepare to see the New York Rangers face the New Jersey Devils in a critical matinee clash tomorrow for the Rangers' playoff hopes, we got some news out of practice that wasn't so good for the Rangers. Mika Zibanejad is sick, and he wasn't on the ice today. Juuso Parssinen filled in for him, but not having the big Swede who has returned to form since the acquisition of J.T. Miller could be a problem.
On the 3rd line, Zibanejad has settled and fought to help make an impact from the bottom six. Playing alongside Chris Kreider and Will Cuylle, that line is far from unimpactful, and it is a significant improvement over most of the third lines across the NHL. Not having the key center of that line would be a blow for the Blueshirts. The Rangers must hope Mika feels alright tomorrow ahead of the big clash.
Zibanejad has 16 goals and 35 assists for 51 points in 75 games this year, still below where he usually is, but it has been much more like Zibanejad since Miller joined the Rangers, and the Blueshirts will look to have that continue in the final seven games. He's got two assists in the three prior games against the Devils this year, and it would be beneficial if the Rangers could have him add to that tomorrow.
Otherwise, the Rangers are going to need someone to replace him. Juuso Parssinen has convinced no one as an addition, and the right decision regarding who replaces him will be a difficult internal conversation for the coaching staff. Thankfully, illnesses are not long-term issues for hockey players, and the Rangers will not have to be without Mika for too long if everything goes well. They need him back with the team when he is capable.