Sean Avery Practices, Won't Play For Rangers Thursday

NEW YORK (WFAN/AP) — Sean Avery is back on the practice ice with the Rangers, but he will have to wait at least one game before getting into the lineup.

The noted agitator won't play Thursday night against the Anaheim Ducks. Rangers coach John Tortorella has decided to stick with the same lineup that beat San Jose 5-2 on Monday night.

"I love walking into the building. I'm definitely excited about playing in the new building. I just want to help these guys win. I just want to play my game and play as hard as I can and help them win," Avery said on Wednesday, according to the Bergen Record. "I talked to the coaches, I didn't skate because of re-entry waivers for a couple of days and, you know, really the guys played pretty last game and had a big win so I wouldn't change the lineup."

Avery returned to the Rangers on Tuesday after he cleared waivers and was recalled from Connecticut of the AHL. He practiced with his teammates today for the first time since he was sent to the minors just before the regular season began.

"We're all here because we want to play for the Rangers," said Avery. "I want to play. I want to win. I want to play as hard as I can, and that's what it comes down to."

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