Hurricanes' Hamilton out for Game 1 vs. Rangers

Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Dougie Hamilton will not be in the club's lineup for Game 1 against the New York Rangers on Saturday, head coach Rod Brind'Amour confirmed, according to team reporter Michael Smith.

Brind'Amour said Hamilton is "getting better" but isn't yet ready for game action.

Hamilton, 27, suffered a broken fibula in January but was ready to return in April. However, he sustained an unspecified injury - which is reportedly not related to his broken leg - in practice last week.

The 6-foot-6 rearguard contributed 14 goals and 40 points through 47 games this season.

The Hurricanes will also be without blue-liner Brett Pesce, who continues to recover from shoulder surgery.