The New York Rangers have been hanging tough in the Metro Division this year. The Blueshirts pulled out a gutsy 5-4 shootout win over the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday to keep them in the hunt for a playoff spot.
But that win proved costly for the Rangers. At the 9:56 mark of the third period, captain J.T. Miller took a hit from Philly blueliner Nick Seeler. The collision left Miller visibly shaken, leading him to leave the game.
Check out the collision here:
He did not return for the rest of the third period or overtime. Following the game, Rangers coach Mike Sullivan did not provide any further updates. Sullivan delivered a boilerplate response, stating that Miler will undergo additional testing and evaluation.
But according to one medical expert, the injury could be catastrophic for the Rangers. Renowned physician, Dr. Harjas Grewal, speculates the following on the injury:
Perhaps the Rangers and Miller catch a break. The injury may only be a severe case of soreness. But if Grewal is right, Miller could miss some time with a potentially separated shoulder. But there’s always the fear that it might be a broken collarbone. Such an injury would prove devastating for the Rangers.
But judging from the eye test, the hit didn’t look bad enough. So, here’s hoping that J.T. Miller can heal over the Christmas break and get back on the ice when NHL action resumes.
Rangers Can’t Afford to Lose Miller
The Rangers have had a stop-and-go season. The club has had solid stretches, but also fallen flat at times. Part of the team’s woes has been a lack of consistent offense. That’s why missing J.T. Miller for an extended period is something they cannot afford.
Miller has been a Swiss Army knife of sorts this season. He’s played center, and he’s been on the wing. He’s also been all over the ice, delivering offense while also throwing his weight around as needed.
His leadership is also another crucial factor the club would miss in his absence. That’s why the hope is that the Rangers won’t go without Miller for long. Losing him at this point in the season could mark a massive setback for the club’s playoff chances.
Blueshirts Looking to Add Despite Potential Miller Injury
The Rangers are purportedly continuing their quest to add this season. The rumor mill suggests the Blueshirts were close on Quinn Hughes. As such, missing out on the star blueliner has not deterred GM Chris Drury from seeking other available options.
According to a rumor piece by The Fourth Period:
“…The Rangers are trying to go big game hunting and would like to acquire a star player in his 20s.”
Those are some pretty lofty ambitions, considering there aren’t too many stars in their 20s available. It remains unclear who the Rangers might be targeting. But if their interest in Quinn Hughes is any indication, Chris Drury is certainly swinging for the fence this season.
Rangers Could Get Awful Injury News if Medical Expert Is Right