Rangers Roundup: Mark Scheifele trade talk, and Gerard Gallant provides update
The New York Rangers are looking for a center. We all know the names that have been mentioned over and over again. They are Jack Eichel, Evgeny Kuznetsov, along with the hopes Aleksander Barkov becomes available. Well, maybe we should add another name to the mix.
Rangers should target Mark Scheifele
Mark Scheifele is the Winnipeg Jets leading scorer this past season with 63 points in 56 games. The 28 year-old pivot plays a big and tough game. Unfortunately for him and the Jets, too big and too tough. In Game 1 of their second round series with the Canadiens, Scheifele made a critical mistake by blasting Jake Evans to prevent an empty net goal. He failed at that, and was then suspended for 4 games. The Jets were swept and he never played another playoff game this postseason.
Up until his suspension, Scheifele had five points in five playoff games. He has 3 years left on a deal that pays $6.125 million per season. So why am I bringing up Scheifele? Well that’s because Larry Brooks randomly inserted his name into the rumor mill with his latest Slap Shots column.
Though it goes without saying, it will be said anyway: If Mark Scheifele somehow becomes available out of Winnipeg, he is the player for whom the Rangers empty the cupboard, and the guy in Buffalo becomes Jack Who?
NY Post
While Brooks could be speculating, it’s also very possible that Scheifele’s name was whispered into his ear. Interesting, if nothing else.
I will say this though, the Jets could view some of the Rangers defense prospects like Matthew Robertson, or Zac Jones as legit trade pieces. Maybe coupled with Ryan Strome, a deal could be made.
Gerard Gallant provides update on his status
Elliotte Friedman recently reported that both the Blue Jackets and Rangers are close to hiring coaches. Later in the day, the Blue Jackets opted to name long time assistant Brad Larsen their bench boss. So far, Gallant is still unemployed although interviewed by the Rangers, Kraken, Blue Jackets, and Sabres. My best guess is Brind’Amour seems to be gumming up the works.
Gallant was on SPUD 102 in PEI this Sunday morning and provided an update on his situation. “I’ve had conversation with different teams. Things are moving along,” he told host Paul Schurman. “Teams are doing their due diligence but I’m hoping something is done soon. I wish I could tell you something is done.”
From all accounts, Gallant is the leading candidate to get the job. However, with a prized young coach like Brind’Amour possibly available, Chris Drury has to explore that option.
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