New York Rangers backup netminder Martin Biron wasn’t in attendance for the start of training camp due to a personal issue, opening the door for veteran goalie Johan Hedberg to sign a PTO with the club.
The nature of Biron’s situation wasn’t made public but, according to ESPN’s Katie Strang, the 36-year-old is likely to return to the club soon, possibly as soon as Thursday.
Hedberg, 40, makes sense for the Rangers on a number of fronts.
One, he was in the area -- he’d been hanging around New Jersey after the club bought out his contract in early July following the acquisition of Cory Schneider.
Two, he’s a capable backup.
Though last year’s lockout-shortened season was a disappointment, Hedberg did go 17-7-2 in 2011-12 for the Devils, filling in admirably with starter Martin Brodeur injured.
That’s said, it’s unclear if Hedberg will remain in camp when Biron returns.