The Rangers also announced that Filip Chytil was out, but the head coach made it a point to say it was just “day-to-day.” Kakko has been out since January 21 with an upper-body injury but finally skated with the team at practice. He was a third line centered by Barclay Goodrow in place of the injured Chytil and Alexis Lafreniere on the opposite flank. Kevin Rooney, who has been out since March 2 with an upper-body injury may also be close to returning. “They looked really good out there and they’ve been skating a long time,” Gallant said. “Conditioning is not an issue. We’ll see what the trainers say and we’ll find out this afternoon what the plan is.” The head coach also noted that there was definitely a chance they could play tomorrow when the Rangers host the Ottawa Senators.
Watching this game, I really don't know why anyone would rather play the Caps. Again, I think we'd beat either team, but the Pens are a much softer team, and are top heavy with no depth, and a weak goalie. All they have going for them is Crosby and Malkin are obviously great, but outside of those two it is a whatever team at best. Stand by my comments, I rather play the Pens over the Caps. Now it is just about a toss-up - Pens up 4 points, but they are struggling and the Caps have two games in hand. I'll also add, do not win the division. If we do we get TB or Boston in round 1, and most likely Carolina in round 2. I much rather play the Pens or Caps in round 1, and still most likely Carolina in round 2. Matchups and getting beat up matter in the NHL playoffs. Best road is Pens somehow hold onto 3rd, and we stay in 2nd. Getting interesting.
