New York Rangers confirm the worst as 24-year-old forward is forced onto LTIR with a lower-body injury

Edström, who suffered a lower-body injury during practice on December 1, has missed the Rangers' last four games and has not progressed the way the medical staff expected. On Wednesday, the team officially placed the 24-year-old forward on long-term injured reserve, a move that signals his recovery will take weeks rather than days.

The injury first appeared minor, with Edström listed as day-to-day. Yet his absence from practices and games told a different story, and the lack of improvement forced New York to take the LTIR route to open roster flexibility. Despite being a depth piece, Edström brought size, reach and strong defensive instincts to the fourth line.

The timing makes it tougher. The Rangers are currently dealing with several injuries, throughout the line from Matt Rempe to Jonathan Quick and Adam Fox. Edström's setback disrupts a bottom-six group that had finally carved out an identity through heavy forechecking and long cycles.

Fans sensed trouble when Edström remained completely absent from team activities, even after Matt Rempe returned to skate in a non-contact jersey. Vince Mercogliano's report confirmed what many feared, noting the team expected steadier progress but did not see it.

Placing Edström on LTIR now gives the Rangers cap relief and space to maneuver, especially as they continue scanning the market for help on the back end and potentially another forward. Still, it is a frustrating blow for a young player who was beginning to find his footing.

For now, the Rangers must move forward without him, hoping his recovery finally stabilizes as the season grinds toward the holidays.