Overview
- The Rangers announced the recall of defenseman Marc Del Gaizo from AHL Hartford on Sunday to provide immediate defensive depth.
- The team confirmed on Monday that rookie Alberts Smits is out week-to-week with an upper-body injury and will miss the remainder of the Pacific Division road trip and the Nov. 16 home game.
- Del Gaizo was named Hartford’s captain this season and leads Wolf Pack defensemen with 11 points in 15 games while bringing 55 NHL games of prior experience and a physical edge.
- No corresponding roster transaction was required for the recall, and Del Gaizo is expected to serve as a temporary replacement until Smits or Sean Durzi, who is on injured reserve, can return.
- With starter Igor Shesterkin already lost for the season, the recall highlights how the Rangers are managing thin depth on the blue line and what to watch for next are return timetables for Smits and Durzi and any lineup changes once they heal.