Adam Fox Returns to Ice as Rangers Approach Upcoming Games

Adam Fox, the talented defenseman for the New York Rangers, is showing promising signs of recovery. He participated in an optional morning skate on Wednesday, donning a red non-contact jersey alongside several teammates. This session took place ahead of an important game at UBS Arena.

Coach Mike Sullivan’s Encouraging Remarks

Head coach Mike Sullivan expressed optimism regarding Fox’s rehabilitation progress. Prior to the Rangers’ recent 5-2 loss to the New York Islanders, he stated, “It’s very encouraging that Fox has taken this next step. It just suggests that he’s getting closer to returning.”

Despite this positive development, time is of the essence for Fox. The 27-year-old Long Island native may struggle to return to game action before the NHL’s scheduled break for the Winter Olympics in Milan, which commences next week. The Rangers have only three games left — including a Thursday showdown against the Islanders at Madison Square Garden and a Saturday matchup in Pittsburgh.

Coach Sullivan: “I don’t have an answer for you, but the fact that he’s joining the team suggests that he’s in the final stages before his return to play."

Fox’s Injury History

Fox’s recent struggles stem from a series of injuries that have sidelined him for significant stretches this season. Since November 29, he has only featured in three games, mainly due to a shoulder injury and a lower-body issue he sustained on January 5 against the Mammoth.

Key Points:

• Injury Timeline:
  • Early shoulder injury
  • Lower-body injury sustained on January 5
• Current Status: Participated in practice with a non-contact jersey

Goalie Igor Shesterkin and Other Updates

In the same game where Fox got injured, goalie Igor Shesterkin also faced a lower-body injury. He was observed working out on the ice at the Rangers’ training facility under the watchful eye of goalie coach Jeff Malcolm. Sullivan confirmed that Fox is ahead of Shesterkin in terms of recovery. Additionally, forward Conor Sheary was seen in the optional skate, managing a lower-body issue while also wearing a non-contact jersey.

Recent Game Highlights:

• Spencer Martin has been filling in as the starting goalie, having allowed all five goals in his latest outing against the Islanders on 36 shots.
• This was his fourth start since Shesterkin’s injury, with Sullivan rotating between Martin and veteran Jonathan Quick to optimize their performance.

Sullivan on Goaltending Strategy: “The biggest thing is just trying to set them both up for success. We weren’t sure about the workload for a guy like Quick, so sharing the work has given us better versions of both goalies.”

Looking Ahead

As the Rangers prepare for the rest of the season, the team eagerly anticipates Adam Fox’s return, which could significantly impact their performance as they move closer to the Olympic break. As they tackle vital games in the coming days, all eyes will be on Fox’s recovery and how it plays into the team’s strategy moving forward.

Upcoming Games:

• Thursday: vs. New York Islanders at Madison Square Garden
• Saturday: at Pittsburgh
• Next Thursday: vs. Carolina Hurricanes

For more information about the latest updates regarding the Rangers, consider following NHL.com and other trusted sports news outlets. Keeping an eye on player health and recovery can provide insights into the team’s future game strategies.

Stay tuned for further updates as the Rangers navigate the season and the Winter Olympics break.