Skip navigation
Favorites
Sign up to follow your favorites on all your devices.
Sign up

Kevin Klein (back spasms) uncertain for Rangers’ season-opener

New York Rangers v Montreal Canadiens

MONTREAL, QC - OCTOBER 15: Kevin Klein #8 of the New York Rangers skates with the puck during the NHL game against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre on October 15, 2015 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The Canadiens defeated the Rangers 3-0 and for the first time in franchise history, the Canadiens have won five games in a row to start the season. (Photo by Minas Panagiotakis/Getty Images)

Getty Images

New York Rangers defenseman Kevin Klein is dealing with back spasms and is uncertain to play in Thursday’s regular-season opener against the Islanders at MSG.

Klein has missed the last two days of practice due to the spasms. His injury comes amid speculation that the club may be looking to trade Dylan McIlrath, who like Klein is a right-shot d-man.

With Klein’s status up in the air, head coach Alain Vigneault does not expect any roster moves for now. The Rangers are currently carrying eight defensemen, including Klein.

Also today came word that veteran winger Nathan Gerbe would not be reporting to the AHL. Gerbe’s one-year contract, signed on July 1, will reportedly be terminated by mutual agreement and he will play in Switzerland this season.

Gerbe was placed on waivers last week.