Rangers’ Jimmy Vesey exits Game 2 with upper-body injury

Florida Panthers left wing Matthew Tkachuk (19) passes the puck against New York Rangers left wing Jimmy Vesey (26) during the first period of Game 1 of the NHL hockey Eastern Conference Stanley Cup playoff finals, Wednesday, May 22, 2024, in New York. (Julia Nikhinson/AP)

Sportsnet Staff May 24, 2024, 10:29 PM

The New York Rangers played most of the second half of Game 2 down a forward on Friday night.

Rangers forward Jimmy Vesey was ruled out before the third period against the Florida Panthers after suffering an upper-body injury.

Vesey appeared to be hurt in the second period when he was hit by Ryan Lomberg after passing the puck.

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The 30-year-old Boston native has one goal and two assists in 11 playoff games this year.

Vesey had 13 goals and 13 assists in 80 regular-season games.

The injury could open the door for forward Blake Wheeler to return in Game 3. Wheeler, who took part in pre-game warmup on Friday, has been out since suffering a lower-body injury on Feb. 15.