"Once we knew he could play, he was going in the top four (defensemen), " Tortorella said.

WSJ: Rangers D Staal returns from serious eye injury

Columbus also acquired defensemen Steven Delisle and Blake Parlett from the Rangers on Wednesday.

WSJ: Rangers deal slumping star Gaborik to Blue Jackets

Defensemen Cam Barker and Andrew Alberts, plus forward Aaron Volpatti, were scratched for Vancouver.

NPR: Blackhawks Match Record For Opening Point Streak