Rangers sit and wait for their next playoff opponent

The Rangers can kick back, lick some wounds, get some rest, and wait for their next opponent.

The Islanders' 3-1 victory Saturday over Washington in what could have been, and still might have been, the final game they will play at Nassau Coliseum, extended their first-round series to a Game 7 on Monday in D.C.

The winner plays the Rangers, with Games 1 and 2 at Madison Square Garden, dates to be determined, in the second round. By dispatching Pittsburgh in Game 5 Friday, the Rangers got the weekend off. They are expected to return to practice Monday, and their next series won't begin until Wednesday at the earliest.

More likely – with Eric Clapton booked for concerts at the Garden Friday and Saturday – the next round will be played Thursday and Sunday.

Asked about the Islanders and Capitals, Marc Staal said late Friday night, "I've watched a little bit, mostly highlights I haven't watched a full game. It's another tight series and two very good hockey teams. Pick your poison there."

At least the Rangers can take an uncustomary breather. They need it with Mats Zuccarello leaving Game 5 in the first period, after being hit in the head/face with a Ryan McDonagh slap shot. There was no update on Zuccarello's status Saturday. Friday, coach Alain Vigneault said he was told, during the celebration, that Zuccarello is "alright."

Kevin Klein (broken arm) wasn't able to return in the first round, but could be in play at some point in the second round, and Keith Yandle was playing with an illness vs. Pittsburgh.

"I think it's good for us right now," said Henrik Lundqvist. "We have a couple guys that need a couple days to recover and take care of some stuff. I think it's huge for us, to regroup a little bit and come ready for the second round."

Twitter: @RangersReport