NEW YORK, N.Y. - Rangers top-line forward Rick Nash is sitting out his first game of the season because of an undisclosed injury.

Whatever is ailing Nash threatened his playing status for Sunday's 2-1 home victory over the Washington Capitals but he was in the lineup.

New York coach John Tortorella would only say then that Nash, in his first season with the Rangers, was "banged up."

Tortorella was no more forthcoming Tuesday night about an hour before the Rangers hosted the Montreal Canadiens.

"He's out," Tortorella said. "It just gives other people an opportunity, so you just go play."

Nash was well enough to play after warmups Sunday, and he earned an assist and tied his season-high with eight shots in the game. He has three goals and nine assists with the Rangers this season.

Enforcer Brandon Mashinter, acquired from San Jose last month, and young forward Chris Kreider joined the lineup Tuesday.

They took the places of Nash and centre Darroll Powe, who was placed on the injured list Monday after sustaining a concussion during a collision with Washington's Matt Hendricks on Sunday.

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