Rangers head coach Gerard Gallant provided positive but cautious updates on Ryan Strome and Barclay Goodrow ahead of New York's Game 4 Eastern Conference Final matchup on Tuesday night against the Lightning in Tampa.
Gallant told reporters after Tuesday morning's optional skate that he expects Goodrow (who was not skating) to play in Game 4.
As far as Strome, who did skate on Tuesday morning, Gallant said he thinks he'll be ready to go as well.
Strome left Game 3 in the second period due to a lower body injury and did not return.
Goodrow was briefly hobbled in Game 3, leaving for a bit after blocking a shot that hit the same ankle that caused him to miss significant time earlier during the playoffs.
After Strome left Game 3, Andrew Copp slid over from wing to center on the second line and Goodrow was moved up from the fourth line.
The Rangers have a 2-1 series lead against the Lightning, with Game 4 set for Tuesday night at 8 p.m. Game 5 is Thursday night at Madison Square Garden.
BLAIS A LONG SHOT FOR ECF
Forward Sammy Blais was on the ice while wearing a white jersey during Tuesday's optional skate.
It was the first time since returning to the ice that Blais wasn't in a non-contact jersey.
But Gallant said after the skate that Blais remains a long shot to return during the Eastern Conference Final.