Rangers Lose Defenseman Adam Fox for Several Weeks
The New York Rangers will be missing their key defenseman, Adam Fox, for at least a few weeks. He sustained an upper body injury—likely his left shoulder—during Saturday’s 4-1 defeat against the Lightning. League officials have confirmed that he’s been placed on long-term injured reserve.
Under NHL regulations, the 2021 Norris Trophy winner is expected to be out for a minimum of 10 games and about 24 days due to this LTIR status. Fortunately, the injury doesn’t appear to be season-ending, and Fox should be re-evaluated around Christmas time.
At just 27, Fox plays a vital role on the Rangers’ power play. He’s tied with winger Artemi Panarin for the team lead, accumulating 26 points (3 goals and 23 assists) over 27 games this season.
Fox was injured with just under 13 minutes remaining in the third period after a collision with Tampa Bay’s Brandon Hagel, who had already scored two goals in that game.
Before leaving the ice, Fox assisted captain JT Miller on the Rangers’ lone goal, marking his sixth consecutive game with an assist—a testament to his impact on the team.
With Fox sidelined, Coach Mike Sullivan opted to field a power play unit comprised entirely of five forwards. “He’s a Norris Trophy winner,” noted center Mika Zibanejad, emphasizing Fox’s importance. “He’s been directing our power play for a long time. Without him, we have to simplify things, trying to get the puck to the net. It’s definitely a different dynamic when he’s not there. It’s not ideal.”
In roster updates, the Rangers have called up goaltender Spencer Martin from AHL Hartford and sent goaltender Dylan Garland down to the Wolfpack.
Additionally, veteran backup Jonathan Quick has been out since November 22 with a lower-body injury, missing the last four games. Meanwhile, Igor Shesterkin made consecutive starts for the second time since February 2023.
On a positive note, JT Miller, who started the season slowly with four goals in his first 21 games, has found his stride, scoring three times in his last four games.
