Mueller to Hartford, and Stepan likely back in; Bodie's hot start; Hunwick making the most

Off day on Thursday, but still plenty of news to share. Nothing in the way of a game on Friday, but the Rangers will play twice this weekend, so there's plenty of hockey on the horizon. Now, here are your morning notes.

Chris Mueller was sent down to Hartford on Thursday, all but assuring Derek Stepan will make his season debut Saturday in Toronto. [Blueshrit Banter] [Ranger Rants] [ESPN NY]

And in electing to send down Mueller, the team showed some commitment to rookie Kevin Hayes. [NY Post]

Derick Brassard recorded a goal and an assist, and two points on the power play in Wednesday night's win. Through the early part of the season, he's been strong as the team has shown confidence in him. [NY Post] [ESPN NY]

A nice read on rookie defenseman Mat Bodie, who helped Union hockey reach new heights, and is now trying to begin his professional career in Hartford (and is off to a rather strong start there). [Hartford Courant]

Another one of those kids on the Wolf Pack, it's high time the Rangers gave 21-year-old J.T. Miller an actual, extended look at the NHL level. [Blueshirt Banter]

Kevin Klein came back a bit sooner than most assumed he would. His return also buried Dylan McIlrath back in the minors. [NY Post]

Matt Hunwick may be in the Rangers lineup due to injuries and other losses, but he's racking up points, and making the most of his opportunity. [Daily News]

Worth repeating again and again: Martin St. Louis looks much more comfortable, and is putting up St. Louis-like numbers now that he's back on the wing. [NY Post]