Adam Fox on LTIR, Filip Chytil’s indefinite absence, and future plans | G3 Football Updates

The New York Rangers faced a series of roster moves and injuries on Friday, with defenseman Adam Fox being placed on long-term injured reserve (LTIR) due to a knee injury. This move was necessary for the Rangers to have cap flexibility and make room for other players. Fox’s injury is expected to keep him out for 2-4 weeks.
In addition to Fox, goaltender Igor Shesterkin suffered a minor injury after a collision with Carolina’s Jesperi Kotkaniemi in the previous game. While Shesterkin finished the game, he was feeling “banged up” and needed some rest. As a result, the Rangers called up goalie Louis Domingue to back up Jonathan Quick in their upcoming game against the Minnesota Wild.
Furthermore, forward Filip Chytil is out indefinitely due to a concussion he sustained from a hit by Jesper Fast. Chytil has a history of concussions, and this latest injury will keep him off the ice for an unknown period of time.
Despite these setbacks, the Rangers are currently on a six-game winning streak and have a strong record of 8-2-0. Losing a player like Fox, who leads the team’s defensemen in various categories, is undoubtedly a challenge for head coach Peter Laviolette.
In Fox’s absence, the defensive pair of K’Andre Miller and Jacob Trouba is expected to see more ice time at even strength and on the penalty kill. Miller and Trouba have already been logging significant minutes and will now have an even greater role in the team’s defensive efforts. Additionally, Zac Jones will be called up to replace Fox in the lineup.
On the power play, Erik Gustafsson will take over Fox’s role on the first unit. Gustafsson, a left-handed shot, will bring a different dynamic to the setup but has experience running NHL power plays. Miller will return to the second power-play unit.
In terms of the forward lines, Vincent Trocheck is likely to take Chytil’s spot between Artemi Panarin and Alexis Lafrenière. Meanwhile, Jonny Brodzinski will slot in between Will Cuylle and Blake Wheeler. The Cuylle-Trocheck-Wheeler line has struggled thus far, and Brodzinski’s speed and shoot-first mentality may help improve their performance. Brodzinski may also take Chytil’s spot on the second power-play unit.
The status of goaltender Igor Shesterkin is also crucial for the Rangers. Shesterkin has been in good health recently and won the Vezina Trophy in the 2021-22 season. With a few days off until their next game, Shesterkin will have time to rest and recover.
Overall, the Rangers will face challenges in adjusting their lineup without Fox and Chytil. However, they have a strong team and have shown resilience during their winning streak. It will be interesting to see how Laviolette manages the lineup and if other players can step up in the absence of key contributors.
(Photo of Adam Fox: Derek Cain / Getty Images)