The Rangers are holding their breath about Ryan Lindgren yet again.
Over the last few years, the Blueshirts have become accustomed to watching Lindgren take what seems like a terrible hit only to pop back up and be just fine.
But when he went down in the left corner after a hit from Jean-Gabriel Pageau during the second period of Sunday’s game against the Islanders, there was no instant reprieve.
Instead, Lindgren — without putting weight on his left leg — was helped to the dressing room and did not return for the third period.
For the Rangers, who are already missing Jacob Trouba on the right side of their defense with a lower-body injury, that is far from an ideal situation.
Lindgren, despite his bruising game, has missed just two matches this season.
If he isn’t ready in time for Tuesday’s clash against Winnipeg, it will likely mean Chad Ruhwedel will be inserted into the lineup for his debut on Broadway after the Rangers acquired the right-handed defenseman as depth at the trade deadline, sending a 2027 fourth-round pick to Pittsburgh in return.