As the playoffs rapidly approach, the New York Rangers seem like they’re getting closer to full-strength.
While Henrik Lundqvist’s return to health may actually be a little complicated, integrating Martin St. Louis back into the lineup would likely be a lot more straightforward. He took a big step in that regard on Thursday, as he skated for the first time since suffering a sprained MCL on March 15.
The veteran winger seemed positive about that spin on the ice, which he discussed with the Bergen Record.
“I’m going to see how I feel today and take it a day at a time right now, the rest of the day, and assess how this will feel,” St. Louis said. “I’ve been on the ice probably an hour, not pushing it extra hard but just being in gear again for that hour, we’ll see how I respond. I’m encouraged how I felt out there. I never had an injury like that before. What I feel is new to me so I have to react accordingly and take the next step accordingly. Today was a good step.”
The Rangers’ regular season ends with a road game against the Washington Capitals on April 11. It’s remarkable to already consider when St. Louis may play again. Perhaps he’ll even shake off all the rust and get his knee close to full strength by playoff time?