The Rangers and Arnott had agreed to a one-year deal worth $1.6 million but that was pending a physical, which Arnott did not pass on Sunday. The Rangers are expected to still be in the market for a big UFA centerman but it won't be Arnott.
Blues center Jason Arnott came to the rink briefly today, but did not practice. The club says that Arnott has a lower-body injury, but multiple sources say the veteran is upset with Hitchcock's decision not to play him.
Coach Ken Hitchcock is going to give Arnott some down time over the next few days. The 37-year old Arnott will not play against Carolina or against Tampa on Saturday as he mends from some bumps and bruises.
The Blues are currently carrying two extra forwards which gives Hitchcock the option to rest Arnott. The veteran center scored 16 goals and 32 points through his first 64 games with the team.
Jason Arnott continues to skate on his own and is eligible to come off IR anytime. He needs to strengthen his shoulder back up to where he can shoot and take a hit. As of yesterday he was feeling better but still isn’t quite there.
Arnott is getting closer so consider him an option to return this week. He has 12 goals and 24 points through 49 games.