The New York Rangers picked up a critical point to keep in the NHL playoff race, but that situation may be the least of everyone’s concern for the near future. The Rangers fell 3-2 to the Colorado Avalanche in overtime as the red-hot Mika Zibanejad scored his 41st goal. Pavel Buchnevich also scored while Adam Fox had two assists. Alexandar Georgiev had 25 saves. Buchnevich scored his goal with just 13 seconds left in the game to send the game into overtime. The Rangers currently sit two points behind the Hurricanes and Blue Jackets, but it might be the coronavirus that derails their season.
The New York Rangers waiting on coronavirus decision from the NHL
On Wednesday night, The NBA suspended their season after Utah Jazz players Rudy Goebert tested positive for coronavirus. While those players involved are being examined, the NBA is suggesting that the rest of the players go into a 14-day self-quarantine.
The NHL responded by saying that they are examining all options and will make a decision soon. After the game, head coach David Quinn was asked about the situation and he responded by saying: “We can’t speculate on the course of action will be taken by the NHL. Logistically, we’ll stay here tonight and make a decision following the NHL update Thursday morning.”
The league was already faced with two teams, the San Jose Sharks and the Columbus Blue Jackets, who had planned to play games without fans in their arenas. The Rangers will wait in Denver before waiting for word on the Saturday night game in Arizona. Most believe that the league will follow the NBA and suspend the season.
Another option would be to play games without fans. As necessary as it might be, the biggest impact could be felt by It’s the people who work at the buildings across the league, such as MSG who could lose both the Knicks and Rangers, who will truly do without, if this expected stoppage is extended into the summer.