Libor Hajek continues to sit for Rangers
Rangers defenseman Libor Hajek (25) during practice on Saturday, September 25, 2021. Credit: Noah K. Murray
VANCOUVER, British Columbia – Rookie defenseman Nils Lundkvist was set to be a healthy scratch for the second straight game Tuesday night, and the third time this season, as Rangers coach Gerard Gallant opted to play veteran Jarred Tinordi against the Canucks.
Libor Hajek was set to be a healthy scratch for the 10th time this season. He has not yet played in 2021-22.
Gallant was asked Tuesday if Hajek, 23, needs to play a game at some point, or be sent down to AHL Hartford.
"Hajek's made our team out of training camp,’’ Gallant said. "He's one of eight defensemen and, you know, it's tough on the guy, but he comes to work every day. He's in the NHL. He's a good player. He works hard. But we like our core group that we put out every night. So that's the issue with it. And, knock on wood, we haven't had any injuries where we have to worry about that. But again, (Hajek’s) done everything we’ve asked.’’
Hajek would need to be placed on waivers if the Rangers sent him down to the minors, and there is a danger he could be claimed by another team. So the Rangers are reluctant to take a chance on losing the former second round pick (by Tampa Bay) for nothing.
Gallant said Hajek has handled the situation well.
"He's handled it great,’’ Gallant said. "He's a great kid. We talk to him all the time, and (say), ‘Wait for your chance. If it comes, and, you know, go in there and play well.’’’
As for Lundkvist, who has one assist in seven games in his first season in North America, Gallant says the team is happy with him.
"He is a developing young player in his first year,’’ Gallant said. "We like what he does… He’s coming along fine… we’re happy with his progress.’’
Blue shorts
Injured forward Ryan Reaves was eligible to come off IR, but he remains out with a lower-body injury. He’s missed three games… Julien Gauthier was set to be scratched for the third straight game.
Colin Stephenson covers the Rangers for Newsday. He has spent more than two decades covering the NHL and just about every sports team in the New York metropolitan area.
More Rangers
