Recent game three struggles; Mcdonagh practices full contact; Sixth D-man still undecided
Today's New York Rangers notes
It's game day for the Rangers, as they look to take a 2-1 series lead on home ice against the Penguins at 7 p.m. [NHL] [Penguins vs Rangers coverage] [PensBurgh]
Unfortunately, game three has not gone in the Rangers' favor in recent history. New York has dropped six of their last nine game threes, dating back to 2013 in their series with the Bruins.
Well, @NYRangers fans have to be thrilled to see this photo - Ryan McDonagh going through a full practice! pic.twitter.com/SCzZp1ugxn
— Bruce Beck (@BruceBeck4NY) April 18, 2016
The biggest news from yesterday was seeing Ryan Mcdonagh in a full contact jersey at the Rangers' practice, despite Vigneault saying he is still doubtful for game three. Here is the full practice report from BlueshirtsUnited
If Mcdonagh is still unable to dress on Tuesday, the Rangers have added some defensive insurance by officially recalling Raphael Diaz from Hartford.
With Diaz added to the roster and Dan Girardi expected to miss game three as well, Dylan McIlrath could potentially be the odd man out. AV refused to specify who will play and who will sit, but Diaz receiving power play time at practice yesterday could be a good indicator.
The Rangers are 1-8 on the power play against Pittsburgh so far in the series.
Last but not least, yesterday marked 17 years since Wayne Gretzky played in his final NHL game. Coincidentally the Rangers were also playing the Penguins at the time, as the Great One recorded his final assist in a 2-1 overtime loss.