Photo by Scott Levy/NHLI via Getty Images

Photo by Scott Levy/NHLI via Getty Images

The first big injury has finally run its course, and Derek Stepan returns to the lineup tonight against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Stepan has been out since September with a fractured fibula, and will fill a gaping hole at 1C and address the issue that has been the center position all season long. Stepan will be flanked by Chris Kreider and Mats Zuccarello, as Alain Vigneault doesn’t want to break up the Nash-Brassard-MSL line yet.

On the ice, the Leafs mostly rotate between an aggressive 1-2-2 forecheck  and a passive 1-2-2. However, they’ll also mix in a 2-1-2 forecheck on occassion depending on game situation. In the defensive zone, the Leafs generally play a collapsing box, which will leave the point men open for opportunities. Their powerplay (umbrella) is fairly standard. On the kill, the Leafs will rotate between PK strategies depending on opposition setup.

Rangers Lineup:

Rick Nash-Derick Brassard-Martin St. Louis
Chris Kreider-Derek Stepan-Mats Zuccarello
Carl Hagelin-Dominic Moore-Lee Stempniak
Tanner Glass-Kevin Hayes-Anthony Duclair

Marc Staal-Kevin Klein
Conor Allen-Dan Girardi
Matt Hunwick-Mike Kostka

Scratches/Injuries: Dan Boyle (hand), Ryan McDonagh (shoulder), Ryan Malone (healthy), John Moore (suspension)

As always, be sure to check out our ticket link if you’re looking for tickets to a game.

Game time is 7pm on MSG2.

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