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Reilly Smith will be held out of the New York Rangers’ lineup on Sunday night against the Nashville Predators for roster management-related reasons as the team prepares to trade the veteran forward.
The Rangers reiterated their point this morning that they aren’t in a position to let any of their upcoming unrestricted free agents walk without getting assets or players in return.
Smith also did not practice on Sunday.
On Saturday, the Rangers traded both Ryan Lindgren and Jimmy Vesey to the Colorado Avalanche, starting their fire sale of the UFAs.
Smith was acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins this past offseason from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a 2025 conditional fifth-round pick and a 2027 second-round pick.
Given Smith’s absence, expect the Rangers to trade him before the Mar. 7 NHL Trade Deadline.
The 33-year-old forward has recorded 10 goals, 19 assists and 29 points in 58 games while averaging 15:36 minutes.