Gardiner (lower body) will return to the lineup Friday evening against the Rangers, Steve Zipay of Newsday reports.

EDGE Analysis

The enigmatic blueliner was placed on injured reserve last Friday, though his injury is believed to have been sustained Oct. 17 against the Pens. Now, he'll try to revive a team defense that has allowed 28 goals in just eight games, which will be no easy task against a Rangers squad that is currently fifth overall in the league standings.