Derek Dorsett is expected to miss four to six weeks after breaking a fibula.
AP Photo/John Minchillo

During the first period, Derek Dorsett was injured after sliding to block a shot during a Penguins power play. At the time, it didn’t look good. Somehow, he stayed out for the conclusion of the penalty kill shift. Hockey players are blood and guts. And Dorsett was one of the few Rangers to show a pulse even bugging Marc-Andre Fleury.

Unfortunately, his effort resulted in a painful injury that will require four to six weeks to recover. Dorsett suffered a broken fibula. A valuable energy guy who’s become a fixture on the penalty kill will be missed. Even if he doesn’t put up many points, having an effort guy who hustles is always an important part of a team. Especially one as paper soft as the Blueshirts.

With Dorsett on the mend, expect J.T. Miller to dress for Saturday’s Hockey Night In Canada showdown at Toronto. As was noted by coach Alain Vigneault prior to last night, Miller did nothing wrong. It was strictly a numbers game with Ryan Callahan returning. Look for the 2011 first round pick to get valuable experience. It’s better than sending him back to Hartford where he’s dominated.