Zibanejad missed the Rangers’ previous game against the Florida Panthers. The team announced the 24-year-old center would not be in the lineup just minutes before puck drop on Tuesday.
It has since been reported that Zibanejad’s injury occurred in Friday’s game against the Detroit Red Wings (off a hit by Darren Helm). Initially, Zibanejad felt fine, was cleared and played against Vancouver on Sunday only to report his symptoms on Tuesday morning.
Zibanejad missing time is a big loss for the Rangers. He has had a great start in the first 24 games this year posting 11 goals and 11 assists for 22 points.