New York Rangers defenseman Ryan McDonagh has the flu and will miss tonight’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks. The Rangers’ captain was a game-time decision—as most flu cases are—and the defenseman will be replaced by Adam Clendening. McDonagh will be day-to-day and should not miss more than a couple of games.
McDonagh is off to a great start this year, scoring 1G and 16A in 30 games for the Rangers. He also leads the team in playing time with over four more minutes than any other non-goalie. McDonagh’s absence tonight on the blue line against the powerful Chicago Blackhawks could spell the end of Rangers backup goaltender Antti Raanta’s starting streak.
Replacing McDonagh is Adam Clendening, who has played 7 games this year and none since December 1st. He has 3A in those 7 games, but he is also riding a three-game point streak. He’ll play on the 3rd pairing with Brady Skjei, reports Steve Zipay of Newsday Sports. Kevin Klein will move up to 1st-pairing duties.