Rangers Roundup: Hayes trade talk heats up, updated trade meter, and more
The latest news and rumors on the New York Rangers.
Predators and Jets hot for Hayes
As we wait for the Adam McQuaid trade that will likely land at most a 3rd round pick, the biggest chip Jeff Gorton has is being hotly contested.
However, New York Rangers centre Kevin Hayes might entice the likes of the Winnipeg Jets and Nashville Predators if they’re looking for a more affordable upgrade at the forward position. “If you don’t get Stone, I think [Hayes] is Plan B for a lot of hockey clubs, including the Winnipeg Jets,” Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos reported Saturday during the ‘Headlines’ segment on Hockey Night in Canada. “It wouldn’t nearly be the cost of a Stone and certainly the thought of Hayes coming in and playing in the second centre-ice position and moving [Bryan] Little off to the wing is certainly appeasing to them.”
SPORTSNET
Since this is going to be the most complex deal and one that probably can only get maximum value once the fate of Mark Stone is decided, it is likely that this won’t be done today.
While it may not go down to the wire as the Ryan McDonagh deal did last trade deadline, it could be close as Jeff Gorton tries to maximize the return which is expected to start with a 1st round draft pick.
Another team that could further complicate this are the Calgary Flames who would love to reunite Hayes with his college linemate Johnny Gaudreau. The Flames have been heavily scouting the Rangers over the last few days.
Trading Kreider?
One Rangers player is getting a lot of attention out in the rumor mill and that’s Chris Kreider. I wrote extensively yesterday why he is unlikely to be dealt but contenders like Toronto and Boston are apparently being aggressive.
Here is the bottom line, if those teams aren’t willing to not only give up their 1st round pick but also a young foundational player like Charlie McAvoy (BOS) or Kasperi Kapanen (TOR) then there is no deal to be had. Same goes for Nashville who apparently isn’t willing to part with highly touted prospect, Eeli Tolvanen.
Updated Trade Meter
More About:New York Rangers Features New York Rangers News New York Rangers Rumors