Grabner no ‘empty’ threat to opponents

It may look like Michael Grabner is just padding his stats when he scores empty-netters, but the Rangers winger seems to have an uncanny knack for them.

In Friday night’s 5-1 win over the Hurricanes, Grabner became the first Ranger in the expansion era to record two empty-net goals in one game, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. The second empty-netter finished off his fifth career hat trick.

“First of all, I try to kill off a little bit of time, but when I get the chance, especially if it’s a one-goal game, I try to go and get that goal,” Grabner said after the game. “I’m just trying to, not cheat, but when I get the chance, turn a goal and try to beat some guys.”

Grabner has now scored six empty-net goals this year, which handily leads the NHL. Fourteen players are tied in second with two.

Grabner tied for the league lead last year with four empty netters. The last player to score six or more empty-net goals in a season was Jaromir Jagr, who racked up six in 2000-01. Pavel Bure holds the all-time single-season record with nine in 1999-2000.

“There are tons of guys with speed in this game that can really skate, but he’s got great hockey sense with it and that’s what allows him to get these opportunities,” defenseman Ryan McDonagh said. “Even the empty-net goals, he’s not really ever cheating for them. He’s creating his opportunities by pressuring D-men and getting loose pucks when they’re chipped out.”

Grabner now leads the Rangers with 13 goals on the season. He is halfway to his career-high for the season, twice scoring 26 goals.

Mika Zibanejad did not skate again Saturday as he continued to be sidelined by a concussion. He has been out since Tuesday and there was no update on his status.

Henrik Lundqvist, Kevin Shattenkirk, Jimmy Vesey and Boo Nieves all put on some mid-practice eye black Saturday to help with the sun at Lasker Rink.