Peter Laviolette issues an unexpected statement regarding Ryan Lindgren's return

Lindgren, the "warrior" in the lineup for the Rangers missed the first five games of the NHL season, out with an upper-body injury that required to wear facial protection.

His return to the lineup will see him on the bottom-pairing, with rookie Victor Mancini, usually than his usual partner Adam Fox.

Likely to help ease him back into the game, without pushing him too hard.

Head Coach Laviolette commented on the importance of Lindgren's ability to be in the lineup for the Rangers. He brings more than just intensity, it's intangibles too, and a stout heart and game.

While it is a surprise he won't be on the top-pairing against the Montreal Canadiens, the Rangers have been 4-0-1 without Lindgren in the lineup, and on average letting in only 2 goals per game, with 10 GA in 5 games played.

The Rangers' own warrior defenseman will be ready to defend players like Filip Chytil, and the crease as the hard-nosed defenseman returns to prove his worth to the team once more.

In 2023-2024 the defenseman played 76 games for the Rangers, scoring 17 points with a +22 rating on the ice.

The team signed him to a "prove-it" deal this offseason, with a 1-year $4.5 Million deal. It is up to Lindgren to make himself a long-term fixture in the Rangers system.