Rangers' Jimmy Vesey: Out Thursday with upper-body ailment

Vesey (upper body) is inactive for Thursday's game against the Jets, Brett Cyrgalis of the New York Post reports.

Analysis:

Vesey was slashed hard on the arm in Tuesday's game against the Islanders, which may be the cause of this injury. However, the left winger was seen riding a bike Thursday without any protection on his arm, which leaves optimism that his condition is improving rapidly. The Rangers will be eagerly awaiting the 23-year-old's return, which could come Friday against the Blackhawks, as the rookie has turned in 16 points -- good for eighth on the team -- over his first 27 NHL games.