Marc Staal News

Staal logged 17 minutes, 17 seconds of ice time in 21 shifts of the Rangers’ 4-3 victory over the Washington Capitals in Game 3. Rangers coach John Tortorella certainly wasn’t going to wait any longer to get Staal right back into the heart of the action. Once Staal was given the go-ahead to play, Tortorella took advantage of the much-needed lineup addition.

Staal said yesterday that he probably wouldn't be in Game 1 so we will have to wait until warmups to find out.

He probably won't play in Game 1. However he could return at some point during the first round.

“I don’t want to go down that road yet,” Staal said. “As of right now, I haven’t made a decision one way or the other. I think it’s gonna go day by day. If I feel good enough and make the decision to go, then I’ll go … I haven’t written myself off.”

Despite the obvious optimism, Staal remains cautious about any posisble return to the Rangers lineup in the near future. The Rangers have six games remaining on their schedule, and the regular season concludes a week from this Saturday with a home contest against the Devils.

Staal will need to get back into 'game-shape' before returning to the lineup. He could be back before the end of the regular season, but there has been no timetable given by the Rangers.

Staal says there is no timetable for his return or beginning to practice with team. His vision is not 100 percent.

The Rangers have said “the injury has improved significantly and both doctors are optimistic that Marc will make a full recovery. Staal will be sidelined indefinitely.”

Staal and Del Zotto are both gametime decisions. Bickel and Eminger will be in the lineup if neither can go.

Good news for Staal, who was able to return during this year's Winter Classic. The Rangers' alternate captain likely continues to be eased into the lineup.

Staal will play his first game this season. It will be interesting to see how the Rangers ease him back into the lineup.

It may take Staal a few weeks to get back to his desired fitness level. The All-Star defenseman is hoping to get back into the lineup at some point this season.

Staal is intensifying his practices and could get back into the lineup over the next month barring a setback. Skating at full speed this morning is certainly a good sign for the team's alternate captain.

Staal is hoping to get clearance by the end of the week which is a good sign. Still he probably won't get back into a game before February.

Staal took line rushes with rookie Tim Erixon today and may be nearing a return over the next month or so. The Rangers will continue to play it safe with their top defender so don't expect him this calendar year.

Certainly a step in the right direction but Staal remains out indefinitely with a concussion. If Sidney Crosby is an indicator, the Rangers will be happy if their number one defender can play this year.

Staal is travelling with the team which is a very encouraging sign. Still, don't expect the alternate captain to play in any games on the road trip.

Staal has been skating for a few days now and is confident he will play this season. Keep a close eye on his status as he continues to elevate his heart rate.

Staal continues to skate with the team which is an excellent sign. However, there remains no timetable for his return.

Sounds like Staal is taking the next step which is great for the Rangers and Henrik Lundqvist. Still, a return this calendar year seems highly improbable.