42 Brendan Smith D

Rangers' Brendan Smith: Plays over eight minutes on PK

Smith saw a team-high 8:10 of shorthanded ice time, as the referees handed out a pair of five-minute majors and game misconducts to the Rangers in this one, including one to Brendan Lemieux that most observers would agree didn't even deserve a two-minute minor. The versatile blueliner also saw some time among the forward ranks with the Rangers short two guys at the position, just as he had when injuries thinned the forward group earlier this season. Despite his occasional stints on the wing, Smith has just nine points in 52 games.

Rangers' Brendan Smith: Picks up rare point

The Rangers dressed seven defensemen in this one, of which Smith ranked fifth with 17:01 of ice time, suggesting he's unlikely to be the odd man out should New York shift back to a traditional 12 up front and six on the blue line. Smith hasn't lit the lamp since Nov. 17 and has just two points in his last 18 appearances, so it's safe to keep ignoring him in the majority of formats.

Rangers' Brendan Smith: Doesn't crack Tuesday's lineup

Smith recorded a helper Saturday against the Blue Jackets, but that wasn't enough for the oft-scratched blueliner to maintain his lineup spot. The opportunity for playing time created by Neal Pionk's upper-body injury is now being capitalized on by Ryan Lindgren, who was called up from AHL Hartford and plugged in on the blue line at Smith's expense. It appears that Smith -- despite carrying a $4.35 million cap hit -- is destined to watch from the press box more often than not.

Rangers' Brendan Smith: Out Saturday

He suffered an upper-body injury a few days ago but that doesn't appear to be the main problem. The official roster report has Smith listed as a scratch, so it's safe to assume he's healthy. Perhaps the Rangers elected to sit him to give him some extra rest, as a courtesy. Expect Smith to be good to go Monday in Tampa Bay.

Rangers' Brendan Smith: Sustains upper-body injury

Smith garnered four points in his previous seven games prior to getting hurt. While it seems likely the blueliner will be available versus Florida on Saturday -- assuming he can ditch the non-contact sweater -- if he can't, Brady Skjei figures to slot into the blue line in his place.