New York Rangers News: Center Derek Stepan Out 4-6 Weeks
The New York Rangers lost Derek Stepan in Friday's game against the Boston Bruins, where they lost 4-3. Stepan broke his ribs, which team officials said will force him to miss at least four up to six weeks. The news was revealed by Rangers coach Alain Vigneault during the team's practice Monday morning.
Stepan broke his ribs when Matt Belesky hit him late in the game in his defensive zone, but Belesky was not given a penalty after the hit. Teammate Dylan Mcllrath took offense and fought Belesky after the hit, but also didn't get any supplementary discipline after the game's conclusion.
Losing the 51st overall pick of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft is never good news for a Texas Rangers team that is currently enduring a three-game losing skid. Their recent struggle is primary caused by the lack of power and consistency at the offensive end.
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Stepan himself is a primary contributor for the team, producing 12 points in six goals and six assists in 23 games. He also is a mainstay in the regular lineup, sharing time with Chris Kreider, Jesper Fast, or Kevin Hayes. Because of Stepan's injury, the Rangers might have to tweak its lineup a little bit to gain balance before they meet the Philadelphia Flyers in the weekend.
Team officials later revealed that Jayson Megna from the Hartford Wolf Pack was called up after producing 12 points, as well as eight penalty minutes with the American Hockey League affiliate.
The day after the incident, Stepan visited the hospital to have his injury examined once again. He is expected to be relieved by Emerson Etem, a young wing substitute who hasn't had enough playing time this season. But at this point of the season, the Rangers just need everyone they could get to provide a positive impact for an obviously struggling team.
