Report: X-Rays Are Negative For Rangers Defenseman Dan Girardi's Ankle

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) – The New York Rangers got some good news regarding their recent rash of injuries.

X-Rays on top defenseman Dan Girardi's ankle are negative for any breaks in his foot, TSN's Bob McKenzie has reported. He added in a tweet: "Good news, although some bone bruises can be as painful/debilitating as a fracture."

Girardi blocked a slapshot from Montreal Canadiens forward P.K. Subban during a penalty kill with 1:23 remaining in the third period.

The Rangers also lost defenseman Ryan McDonagh who left the game in the second period after Max Pacioretty plastered him into the end boards head first. The boarding penalty prompted the NHL to call a hearing to discuss a possible suspension but decided not to discipline the Montreal forward.

Compounded with losing their two best blueliners has been the absence of All-Star acquisition Rick Nash who missed his third consecutive game and did not travel with the team on their north-of-the-boarder road trip.

Nash's injury has not been disclosed which has led to speculation of a concussion. The winger took a hard hit from Bruins forward Milan Lucic on Feb. 12 that rattled his head into the end boards. The team is 0-2-1 since his absence.

The first overall pick in the 2002 NHL draft has 3 goals and 9 assists in 14 games since joining the Blueshirts in the off-season. He has scored 30 goals or more in each of his last five seasons.

The Rangers finish up their Canadian trip on Tuesday, Feb. 26 against the Winnipeg Jets.

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