New York Rangers likely out on Ben Chiarot, looking at other rental defenseman
The New York Rangers have been linked to Montreal Canadiens defenseman Ben Chiarot for several weeks, but latest reports indicate that they are no longer in the running.
“It sounds like (the Josh Manson trade) really intensified some of those conversations that were already happening between the Montreal Canadiens and a pretty long list of suitors,” Pierre LeBrun said on TSN Insider Trading Tuesday. “Among the teams that we believe still have interest includes Calgary, Carolina, Florida, St. Louis and others.”
Chris Drury is not inclined to give up any top prospects for a rental, and the asking price on the 30 year-old Chiarot is supposedly a first round pick and a prospect.
So who could the Rangers be looking at if they want to beef the defense before the playoffs? Let’s take a look at some possibilities.
New York Rangers defense targets
Mark Giordano, 38, has 23 points in 55 games for the Kraken. He is exactly what contending teams will be looking for at the deadline. The Rangers had their sights set on him in the offseason prior to signing Patrik Nemeth. They may attempt to acquire him for the playoffs, but the rumor mill has him heading back to Calgary either at the deadline or via free agency. This will cost Drury a first round pick if he wants him, but I would not classify the Rangers first round pick as a blue-chip and definitely a moveable asset.
Colin Miller, 29, is a pending UFA defenseman with the Buffalo Sabres making $3.875 million against the cap. This rugged lefty defenseman has 12 points in 32 games but is currently on IR after surgery to deal with a lower-body injury. He’s expected back this month. This would likely be a low cost move for the Rangers but with much less reward than Giordano.
Calvin de Haan, 30, has 5 points in 55 games for the Blackhawks on the season. He’s a physical defenseman that likes to play physical. His 110 hits and 140 blocks rank 4th and 5th on the Hawks respectively. De Haan would be an upgrade over Patrik Nemeth, but would unlikely be someone the Rangers would put in the top four with any sort of comfort.
Other possibilities could be Detroit’s Nick Leddy or a reunion with Marc Staal. There is still a very real possibility that the Rangers opt to roll with the group of defensemen they have.
NHL Trade Predictions
The NHL Trade Deadline is 6 days away. Here are five predictions involving five of the top trade bait candidates. Who gets them? Read more.
More About:New York Rangers Features New York Rangers News New York Rangers Rumors