Rangers Forward Blake Wheeler Prepares for Comeback in Eastern Conference Finals

Sunday, May 19th, 2024

New York Rangers' Blake Wheeler, who had been sidelined due to a leg injury since February, is now cleared to compete in the Eastern Conference finals against the Florida Panthers.

After suffering an injury on February 15th, Wheeler was placed on the injured reserve list and missed the remainder of the regular season, casting doubt on his playoff availability. However, recent weeks have seen him actively participating in practice without the need for a noncontact jersey.

During an optional practice session, Wheeler expressed his readiness to return to the game, leaving the final decision in the hands of coach Peter Laviolette. Laviolette later confirmed Wheeler's full clearance for game participation and his integration efforts into the team's lineup.

Wheeler, a 37-year-old unrestricted free agent who signed with the Rangers before the season, produced 21 points across 54 games prior to his injury. His absence offered rookie Matt Rempe a spot in the team's regular lineup.

Coach Laviolette commended Wheeler for his dedication to recovery and acknowledged his significant progress. Wheeler himself cited the strong sense of team unity as his driving force for wanting to return to play, emphasizing his eagerness to contribute to the team's efforts on the ice.

The Rangers are set to face off against the Panthers at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night in the Eastern Conference finals, aiming to advance to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time since 2014.

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