After limping off the ice with 41 seconds left in last night’s 3-1 win over the Capitals, Ranger defenseman Kevin Klein returned to New York today where team doctors are examining his left arm. He blocked a Alexander Ovechkin shot and was in pain as he went to the locker room. X-rays are being taken.

If it is serious with the possibility of a broken arm, it would be a big blow to the blueline. Klein has been a consistent performer in his first full season with the Rangers. After coming over from Nashville last year for Michael Del Zotto, he’s fit in seamlessly. Klein performed well in last year’s playoffs playing a steady role on the third pair. This year, he’s stepped it up offensively setting career bests in goals (9) and points (26) while pacing the Rangers in plus/minus (24). He’s actually tied with Rick Nash.

Coach Alain Vigneault has been able to use Klein with Marc Staal in a top four role and rotate him with Dan Boyle. Klein’s versatility allows Vigneault to also team him with new acquisition Keith Yandle on the third pair. He’s even sent Klein out for some shifts with Ryan McDonagh. That speaks to how well he’s played. A gritty stay at home type with a low key approach, he’s been an unsung hero.

Nash is a lock for the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award. But if it was given to a player who has gone above the call of duty and not Team MVP, Klein would be a good choice. If he is out for an extended period, it’ll be hard to replace him. He’s a reliable player with a right-handed shot that allows Vigneault to have balanced D pairs especially since Yandle arrived. Assuming he’s out for Buffalo Saturday, that means Matt Hunwick goes back in.

The Rangers will probably be forced to recall someone from Hartford. Conor Allen would probably be the best bet. He’s a lefty as opposed to former first round pick Dylan McIlrath, who struggled mightily in a brief stint.

Whatever happens, you have to hope Klein won’t be out longer than a month. The playoffs start soon.