Three Rangers are ‘very close’ to returning

Kevin Shattenkirk NHLI via Getty ImagesThe reinforcements are coming, and they’re sorely needed.

Before the Rangers’ brutal 4-3 overtime loss to the Blue Jackets on Thursday night at the Garden, coach David Quinn said the team is “very close” to getting back three key pieces — Kevin Shattenkirk, Jesper Fast and Cody McLeod. Quinn said all three could be ready as soon as Saturday night’s game in Nashville.

Shattenkirk has been out since he suffered a left-shoulder separation Dec. 10 in Tampa. The righty defenseman was supposed to be out two to four weeks, so this is on the early side for him. He was a full participant for Thursday’s morning skate in Westchester before his team’s Garden match…