New York Rangers forward Chris Kreider received distressing, scary news Thursday morning, learning he has a blood clot in his right arm.

Kreider left Wednesday's game against the Washington Capitals under mysterious circumstances in the first period since it did not appear that he suffered an injury during any of his seven shifts. Reporters even speculated that perhaps Kreider was ill, though the team later stated he had an upper body injury, fueling speculation that he had a concussion.

The Rangers announced Kreider will be out indefinitely. Head coach Alain Vigneault likely will address Kreider's situation following the team's practice later on Thursday.

The 26-year-old former first-round pick, is tied for the team lead with five power play goals this season and is tied for second with 11 goals overall. Last season Kreider established career-highs with 28 goals and 53 points. He scored 21 or more goals each of the last three seasons.

Not only is this frightening for Kreider, it is a major blow to the Rangers, who are in the middle of a tight playoff race in the Metropolitan Division and Eastern Conference. The Rangers are tied with the Islanders for the top wild card spot in the East, three points ahead of the Carolina Hurricanes and Pittsburgh Penguins, who are tied for ninth place.

To replace Kreider on the roster, the Rangers recalled 22-year-old winger Vinni Lettieri. The former University of Minnesota product nearly made the Rangers' opening-night roster with a strong training camp and preseason, and has 12 goals, nine assists and 21 points in 31 games with Hartford in the American Hockey League.