Rangers' Noah Laba Nears Return as Season Winds Down

Rookie center could rejoin lineup Sunday after missing 5 games with lower-body injury

Mar. 29, 2026 at 2:48am

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Rangers rookie center Noah Laba is nearing a return to the lineup after missing the past five games with a lower-body injury. Laba, who has 9 goals and 12 assists in 65 games this season, was a full participant in practice on Saturday and could play in Sunday's game against the Panthers, barring any setbacks. The Rangers also assigned center Juuso Parssinen to their AHL affiliate in Hartford to open up a roster spot.

Why it matters

Laba has been a rare bright spot for the Rangers this season, providing solid two-way play and contributing on the penalty kill. His potential return could provide a boost to the team as they look to finish the season strong.

The details

Laba was labeled 'week to week' with the lower-body injury after the March 18 loss to the Devils. He has missed the past five games but was a full participant in practice on Saturday, indicating he is close to returning. Coach Mike Sullivan said they will see how Laba responds before determining if he can play on Sunday. The Rangers also assigned center Juuso Parssinen to their AHL affiliate, opening up a roster spot for Laba's potential return.

  • Laba was injured in the March 18 loss to the Devils.
  • Laba has missed the past 5 games.
  • Laba was a full participant in practice on Saturday.

The players

Noah Laba

A rookie center for the Rangers who has 9 goals and 12 assists in 65 games this season, playing a key role on the penalty kill.

Mike Sullivan

The head coach of the Rangers.

Juuso Parssinen

A center for the Rangers who has appeared in just 20 games this season, posting 2 goals and 1 assist.

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What they’re saying

“He skated at full [speed]. We'll see how he responds to that.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach

What’s next

The Rangers will evaluate Laba's status after Saturday's practice and determine if he can return to the lineup for Sunday's game against the Panthers.

The takeaway

Laba's potential return is a welcome development for the Rangers, who have struggled at times this season. His two-way play and penalty kill contributions could provide a boost as the team looks to finish the season strong.