Rangers forward Martin St. Louis to play Game 5 against Penguins following mother's death

PITTSBURGH, Pa. - New York Rangers forward Martin St. Louis will play in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against Pittsburgh on Friday a day after his mother's death.

St. Louis' mother, France, died unexpectedly in Montreal on Thursday at age 63. St. Louis travelled home after receiving the news shortly after the Rangers landed in Pittsburgh. He discussed the idea of playing with his father before telling New York coach Alain Vigneault his mother would want him to be with his teammates.

The Rangers trail the Penguins 3-1 in the best-of-seven series. New York has never rallied from a 3-1 deficit in franchise history.

The 36-year-old St. Louis is tied for second on the team in post-season scoring with two goals and six assists in 11 games.