Unexpected turn of events in New York as Sammy Blais returns to the ice

Let’s go back to November 14th, 2021. That’s the last time forward Sammy Blais played for the New York Rangers, when he on hurt by the New Jersey Devils defenseman P.K. Subban.

The significant injury took place as Blais and Subban went to the corner to retrieve the puck. The blue liner appeared to stick out his skate causing Blais to go hard into the boards leaving him writhing in pain. Blais needed help off the ice and could not put an ounce of pressure on his right leg. He required ACL surgery as it was announced that he would miss the next 6-8 months.

But then unexpectedly on Wednesday ahead of Game 1 of the second round series against the Carolina Hurricanes, Blais was on the ice with the Rangers.

Blais made an appearance in a non-contact jersey, which definitely lifted the spirits in practice and will probably inspire the Blue Shirts in the series.

That’s true especially because when asked about a possible return for Blais in the postseason, head coach Gerard Gallant did not rule out the possibility.

“It’s possible” when asked if the winger could return during the postseason, Vince Z. Mercogliano of USA Today reports.

That is quite the unexpected turn of events in New York, though you have to consider it a motivating one for the Rangers.

If Blais does suit up in the playoffs, he could be in line for a middle-six role despite having not played since mid-November due to his knee injury.

This will be fun to follow, especially for Rangers’ fans who are set for tonight’s Game 1 against the Canes.