Rangers steal Eric Staal! Jeff Gorton’s big game hunting likely just beginning

Anthony Scultore Updated: Feb 28, 2016

staal-fantasy-hockey-whats-the-point-man The New York Rangers have just acquired star center Eric Staal from the Carolina Hurricanes for a prospect and 2 second round picks. In other words a steal!

Not official by any means, but I believe CAR will receive two 2nd-round picks and quite possibly Finnish prospect Aleksi Saarela. #TSN

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) February 28, 2016

It’s also my understanding, though not official by any means, CAR is expected to retain as much as 50 per cent of Staal’s expiring contract.

— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) February 28, 2016

The deal may change as a trade call is still pending and the salary retention finalized. So in an instant the Rangers now boast Eric Staal, Derick Brassard and Derek Stepan up the middle to solidify themselves for the playoffs.

Jeff Gorton obviously felt the Rangers were contenders for the Cup before the deal and now with Staal in the mix, he’s going for more. The Rangers as I hear it are possibly still in the market for a big proven top 6 winger. He is fully committed to this coach, Henrik Lundqvist and this team to bring a Cup to NY this season.

Names like Marleau, Hartnell and Ericksson are being discussed. Of course, salary would need to be retained and the Rangers must give salary back to make it work. Chris Kreider, Kevin Hayes are far from safe as well. Not to mention that it’s possible they may be coaxing a Rangers blue liner or two if they would waive their clauses (obviously not Marc Staal).

Even if the Rangers can’t land another big forward, a move for 3rd or 4th line depth is very likely. So hold on to your horses and let’s see what happens.