He probably won't play in Game 1. However he could return at some point during the first round.

"I don't want to go down that road yet," Staal said. "As of right now, I haven't made a decision one way or the other. I think it's gonna go day by day. If I feel good enough and make the decision to go, then I'll go ... I haven't written myself off."

Despite the obvious optimism, Staal remains cautious about any posisble return to the Rangers lineup in the near future. The Rangers have six games remaining on their schedule, and the regular season concludes a week from this Saturday with a home contest against the Devils.

Staal will need to get back into 'game-shape' before returning to the lineup. He could be back before the end of the regular season, but there has been no timetable given by the Rangers.

Staal says there is no timetable for his return or beginning to practice with team. His vision is not 100 percent.

The Rangers have said "the injury has improved significantly and both doctors are optimistic that Marc will make a full recovery. Staal will be sidelined indefinitely."

Staal and Del Zotto are both gametime decisions. Bickel and Eminger will be in the lineup if neither can go.

NEW JERSEY DEVILS (6) vs. NEW YORK RANGERS (1) MUST-STARTS: New Jersey Devils: Ilya Kovalchuk. Zach Parise, Travis Zajac, Patrik Elias, Marek Zidlicky, Martin Brodeur New York Rangers: Brad Richards, Marian Gaborik, Ryan Callahan, Michael Del Zotto, Henrik Lundqvist SLEEPERS: New Jersey Devils: David Clarkson, Adam Henrique, Dainius Zubrus New York Rangers: Marc Staal, Chris Kreider, Derek Stepan, Carl Hagelin read more

Good news for Staal, who was able to return during this year's Winter Classic. The Rangers' alternate captain likely continues to be eased into the lineup.

Staal will play his first game this season. It will be interesting to see how the Rangers ease him back into the lineup.