The scuffling New York Rangers -- coming off a 6-3 loss Sunday in Anaheim, and with just two wins in their last seven -- are expected to have a slightly different lineup tonight in San Jose.
Up front, winger Matt Puempel is likely to replace rookie Pavel Buchnevich. And on the back end, Dan Girardi will come in for Kevin Klein.
The Girardi-for-Klein switch is no huge surprise. Both d-men have been battling injuries, with Klein only returning Sunday after an extended absence due to back spasms. Head coach Alain Vigneault told reporters that he “didn’t want to put two injured defensemen in at the same time,” so Klein gets the night off tonight.
AV says Girardi is back in tonight for Klein, who "felt a little tightness" after Sunday's game in Anaheim. #NYR
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) March 28, 2017
As for the potential scratching of Buchnevich, that decision would be slightly more controversial. The 21-year-old has two goals and three assists in his last 11 games, but clearly has not gained the full trust of his coach.
AV adds #NYR will have one extra forward and one extra defenseman during warmups tonight and will make final decision after.
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) March 28, 2017
Henrik Lundqvist is expected to start in goal after a tough return to the net against the Ducks.