42 Brendan Smith D

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.

Rangers' Brendan Smith: Filling in on wing

The injury-riddled Rangers dressed seven defensemen for this one, with Smith getting some shifts on the blue line and some shifts as a fourth-line forward. Smith has been in and out of the lineup as he shuffles between a third-pairing and seventh defenseman role, so there isn't much to see here in terms of fantasy value.

Rangers' Brendan Smith: Fails to etch scoresheet

Smith was deprived of a goal or an assist through 16:37 of ice time. He wasn't involved on the power play and only managed one shot. The veteran does have two points on the season -- good by his standards -- but hasn't pointed in his last three.