It’s possible Rick Nash could be in the New York Rangers lineup versus the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday, and it’s possible that if he does play, it could be on a line with newcomer Eric Staal.
Nash, who has missed 20 games with a bone bruise, took part in Friday’s practice and, based on reports, was on the wing on a line with Staal, who the Rangers acquired from Carolina, and Viktor Stalberg.
“We’ll see how he responds. Today was his first practice. He’s been skating a lot on his own there and skated with half the team (Thursday),” Rangers coach Alain Vigneault told reporters.
“If he responds well to today’s practice, I would say there’s a very good chance that he’d be in the lineup tomorrow.”
Here’s a glimpse of the Rangers’ forward combinations:
#NYR practice: Nash-Eric Staal-Stalberg, Miller-Stepan-Zucc, Kreider-Hayes-Fast, Lindberg-Moore-Glass (Brassard, flu, not practicing)
— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) March 11, 2016
Marc Staal should be ok but obviously must see how he responds to today's practice
— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) March 11, 2016
The combination of Nash, Staal and Stalberg is a big line for the Rangers. Or at least, it could be. And Vigneault referenced how it could present difficulties for opposing teams.
“I find me and Eric to be pretty similar players, and I remember playing with him (as teenagers) way back in the day, so it’s fun whenever you get a chance to play with a guy like him,” said Nash.
“I think with Stalberg, he brings so much speed, one of the best skaters in the league, and hopefully that opens things up once we get playing.”
From practice: AV tells reporters that Henrik Lundqvist is "good to go." Hank has been saying all week that was his goal for Saturday.
— Andrew Gross (@AGrossNewsday) March 11, 2016