Rick Nash and Pavel Buchnevich both return from injuries in time for Friday’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs
The New York Rangers are receiving a welcomed gift this Friday.
Rookie Pavel Buchnevich and seasoned veteran Rick Nash both return to the ice tonight against the Toronto Maple Leafs from respective injuries.
According to Sny.com, Alain Vigneault met with the media on Thursday following Rangers practice and made the announcement that both Nash and Buchnevich would be returning in time for the Friday matchup with the Maple Leafs.
AV says Nash is "100% and ready to go." #NYR
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) January 13, 2017
Rick Nash has missed the last eight games while dealing with a groin injury. His return to the lineup will not only be felt with an offensive boost, but his 19 hits and 21 blocks will help improve the overall performance by the Blueshirts on the ice.
AV says Buchnevich will play tonight but not tomorrow in Montreal because of the back to back. #NYR
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) January 13, 2017
Buchnevich played in just ten games for the New York Rangers before missing the last two months while recovering from a back injury. He certainly showed promise, scoring eight points in his first ten games in the NHL.
In the ultra-competitive Metropolitan division, getting healthier is always a good thing. Trailing the division-leading Columbus Blue Jackets by only three points, a healthy Rangers team means a race for the division title.