Rangers' DeAngelo a game-time decision Saturday vs. Canes

New York Rangers defenseman Tony DeAngelo is a game-time decision for Game 1 of the qualifying round against the Carolina Hurricanes, head coach David Quinn said Friday.

It's unknown why DeAngelo's presence for Saturday's opener is in jeopardy, but he missed Friday's practice.

DeAngelo's projected partner, Marc Staal, will play despite leaving Wednesday's exhibition game, Quinn added.

Libor Hajek would likely be inserted into the lineup if DeAngelo doesn't dress, Quinn said, according to USA Today's Vince Z. Mercogliano.

DeAngelo, who played a team-high 24:09 on Wednesday, had a breakout season in 2019-20, finishing fourth among all NHL blue-liners with 53 points in 68 games.

The Rangers and Hurricanes play at 12 p.m. ET on Saturday.