Henrik Lundqvist: (Neck) Set to Back Up Talbot on Thursday

Lundqvist (neck) is in line to dress for Thursday's game against the Senators, likely as the backup to projected starter Cam Talbot, Steve Zipay of Newsday reports.

Analysis:

Lundqvist hasn't been formally activated from injured reserve just yet, but the team's demotion of Mackenzie Skapski to AHL Hartford makes it a foregone conclusion that the Rangers' top netminder is ready to play. The 33-year-old rejoined the team for a skate Tuesday morning, and looks to be a full participant in Wednesday's practice, suggesting the team is comfortable with where he is at on the health front. Lundqvist, who missed about seven weeks after suffering a "vascular incident" upon taking a puck to the throat in a Jan. 31 win over the Hurricanes, will be eased into action in the early going, but it shouldn't be long before he takes the reins atop the goalie depth chart, despite Cam Talbot's admirable play during Lundqvist's absence.