If ready, when should Filip Chytil return for the NY Rangers?

As the Rangers gear up for Game 3 in Washington, an interesting discussion about lineup changes has begun. Matt Rempe seems to be the guy that may be rotated out for a few different reasons, but that’s a risky proposition given how much Rempe can throw opponents off their game, especially if the sub-in is Jonny Brodzinski. But what if we see a Filip Chytil return? Is that in the cards yet? Is this even the right time?

To first state the obvious, the most likely player to come out of the lineup in the event of a Filip Chytil return–or to get Brodzinski into a game– is Rempe. It may not be popular, but it’s the only logical decision. Brodzinski may not be the guy that gets everyone excited, but Chytil most certainly is.

It seems like a Filip Chytil return is in the cards for the playoffs, so the question is when. Washington is probably the only team the Rangers will face that has less skill and more…shenanigans. Even some of their skill guys like TJ Oshie are low key dirty players. They may not be the best option for Chytil to see his first game action since October.

It’s also worth noting that the Rangers are up 2-0 in the series and, assuming they make adjustments for Game 3 to cover some of their issues in Game 2, could put a stranglehold on the series on Friday night. With such an inferior opponent–settle down Caps fans, it’s just facts– and a strong 2-0 lead, should they even consider this an option for a Filip Chytil return?

The most likely answer is we will see a Filip Chytil return for the Carolina Hurricanes series. The Canes have a lot more skill and the Rangers will need to get more consistent offense up and down the lineup. The different lineup construction warrants more skill and solid two-way play, which Chytil brings to the lineup.

Of course, if the Rangers decide to let their opponent back into the series, something they’ve struggled with in the past, then we might seem him much sooner.

Again, a Filip Chytil return likely means Rempe sits. Rempe sitting is probably something that is going to happen. It’s not an if, it’s a when. The kid is good, and he will have a solid NHL career as long as he isn’t shoehorned into the 80’s style face punch and face punch some more and don’t do anything else role. He’s so much more than that, but the playoffs are not the right time to learn on the fly.