Yes, the Rangers emerged with a split. But let’s face it, they were atrocious coming out of the two-week break. And that’s with the gift of playing two of the worst teams in the League. So, their shoddy play means they only lost one of two, when they absolutely deserved two losses.

And winning one game this weekend was good enough to bump the Rangers within two points of the second wild card in the Eastern Conference. Pardon me, but it’s laughable how mediocre the teams in this “playoff race” actually are.

But it is what it is, and at the end of the day, the Rangers likely are the best of a bad lot contending for a wild-card spot. Plus, they have Igor Shesterkin, who was able to rebound from that 8-2 disaster in Buffalo against the Sabres on Saturday to singlehandedly (and I do mean all by himself) give the Rangers a chance in Pittsburgh on Sunday.

Shesterkin’s brilliance cannot be overlooked. Because it whitewashed a terrible team performance. And then the Rangers showed they have enough talent to switch it on for a few minutes and take advantage of a subpar opponent, one that fortunately featured an AHL goalie at the other end of the ice.

The 5-3 win against the Penguins was much needed, but more than anything it was a massive relief. Now they’re on the cusp of pulling into a playoff spot, maybe even by the end of this week, which features two games against the Islanders (losers of four of five), one against the 30th overall Nashville Predators and one versus a legit contender, the Toronto Maple Leafs.

So, here’s hoping the hockey is more watchable this coming week than it was this past weekend. Because everything is right there for the taking by the Rangers.

New York Rangers news

Here are three Rangers takeaways from that ugly win against the Penguins, including J.T. Miller rising to the occasion alongside Shesterkin.

Coach Peter Laviolette said Rangers “got what we deserved” in that brutal loss to Sabres on Saturday. Wonder how he feels about stealing one in Pittsburgh 24 hours later?!

It hurts my head to look back at these two games, so here’s a lookahead at a four-game week for the Rangers.

NHL news

Of course, it can always be worse Rangers fans. Just look at the Penguins, who are slip sliding away in the East playoff race, now seven points below the cut line and in 15th place. Colleague Dan Kingerski has seen enough and believes it’s time for the Penguins to trade Erik Karlsson — if possible — and retool a bit.

Oh, and the Penguins lost defenseman Matt Grzelcyk with an upper-body injury in the first period against the Rangers.

The Islanders lost again, 4-3 to the Dallas Stars, though this one included a controversial match penalty call against New York center Casey Cizikas and later a less controversial goalie interference call that went against the Isles.

Not so fast on that new contract for Islanders forward Max Tsyplakov. The NY Post reports that Tsyplakov denied he’s close to signing a new deal during the season and will talk with the Islanders when the season ends. His agent reportedly had said the sides are close to a new contract last week.

Boston Bruins defenseman Hampus Lindholm is likely out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

Jusso Valimaki was placed on waivers by the Utah Hockey Club.

Then Utah went out and edged the Vancouver Canucks on Dylan Guenther’s game-winner.

Detroit Red Wings forward Michael Rasmussen left their game against the Anaheim Ducks after taking a blow to the head from Trevor Zegras. There was no update on his condition after the game.

Former Rangers forward Patrick Kane scored the overtime winner to lift the Red Wings past the Ducks 5-4. They now are the first wild card in the East.

Nico Hischier had three assists and Nico Daws backstopped the shutout in a 5-0 New Jersey Devils win against the woeful Predators in Nashville.

Cale Makar became the third-fastest defenseman to reach 400 points in NHL history, when he assisted on a Devon Toews goal in a 3-1 Colorado Avalanche loss to the St. Louis Blues. The two defensemen ahead of him are Hockey Hall of Famers Bobby Orr and Paul Coffey.

Watch Alex Ovechkin record his 32nd career hat trick and move within 13 goals of breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL record in a 7-3 Washington Capitals win against the Edmonton Oilers.

Chris Drury wisely did not engage in some of the madness. Instead he made depth signings.

The signing of veteran left defenseman Patrik Nemeth was made official at 3 years and a $2.5M AAV. Jarred Tinordi was inked for 2 years at $900K AAV as a 7th defender. He also made some depth signings that will help the Wolf Pack in Greg McKegg (1 year / $750K) and Dryden Hunt (1 year / $767K).

Today, the Rangers took care of one of their RFA’s by signing Filip Chytil for two years at $2.3M AAV. The big questions still remains, will they make a trade for Jack Eichel or another center.

If the answer is no, then these are three targets they should consider.

Nick Ritchie, Forward 6-2, 234 lbs (UFA) 

In a bit of a surprising move, the Bruins did not qualify forward Nick Ritchie which made him a UFA.

This past season was a good one for the now 25 year-old UFA as he notched 26 points in 56 games for Boston. He is considered a quality 3rd line guy that should be snatched up pretty quickly.

Ritchie is likely weighing out his options at the moment. Where he signs will be based on what he wants. Is he looking for top term and money, or a chance at a Cup?

The Rangers who are adding toughness at every turn are believed to be interested.

In morning, seemed as if Ritchie was set to remain in Boston. Now, uncertain. Rangers are believed to be an interested third party.

— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) July 28, 2021

Logan Brown, Center 6-6, 220 lbs (RFA)

In Ottawa, they have a hulking center in Logan Brown who has yet to sign his qualifying offer. There’s plenty of speculation he could be trade bait this offseason.

The 23 year-old was drafted 11th overall by the Senators in 2016 and is struggling to find time on the big club. Spanning four seasons, Brown has only played in 30 games and amassed 9 points. Things got so bad his now former agent ripped into the Senators after he failed to make the team out of camp in 2019.

“I can say with full confidence, that I’ve really never seen another player met with such resistance by the team that drafted them early in the first round,” Andy Scott said. “But, from 10,000 feet, when I look at this situation, I see a team that is in the throws of a rebuild and just driving around Ottawa you see the slogan for this season is ‘The Kids are Alright,’  and if the kids are alright, then play the kids. Why is Logan Brown not being groomed to be the next first or second-line centre?”

There was a rumor that the Senators were interested in Ryan Strome. If there is a trade to be made there, getting Brown back might make sense. Should they stay with Strome, it still may be worthwhile to pry him out of there.

Brown’s agent is now Jeff Jackson who represents several Rangers prospects; including Will Cuylle.

I am a little surprised Logan Brown hasn't signed his qualifying offer. Maybe he will but he doesn't have a whole lot of leverage. I think he will be dealt before the season starts but we'll see. #Sens

— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) July 29, 2021

Casey Cizikas, Center 5-11, 195 lbs (UFA)

The Islanders “Identity Line” center should be the top free agent the Rangers should target. He wins draws, and scores clutch goals in the postseason. Cizikas isn’t physically imposing at 5-11 and 195 lbs but he plays so much bigger than his size.

The last bit of news on him was the Islanders are still trying to keep Cizikas on their roster. My thinking is he will likely stay there, but if not he’d be a perfect fit for what Drury is building.

It will cost though. Yesterday, Blake Coleman got a 6 year deal from the Flames at $4.9 million AAV. The Rangers would probably have to give something less, but similar to get the 30 year-old Cizikas.

NHL Rumors

Catch up on the latest NHL Rumors, including Tarasenko and Eichel here.

The Rangers currently have plenty of cap space to play with, but must also sign RFA’s Igor Shesterkin, Filip Chytil, and Libor Hajek. There’s also the possibility of trades which will impact what the Blueshirts will do.

Here’s our updated Rangers shopping list detailed by position, age, and last contract.

New York Rangers likely UFA targets

When the Rangers traded for the rights to Barclay Goodrow then signed him to a six year deal with an AAV of $3.6 million, they gave you a clear indication of the type of players they are looking for. I expect, even if they make a trade for a center that these names are still a consideration.

Jordan Martinook (Forward – 29 y/o – $2M AAV): Martinook is ferocious forechecker and physical player that refuses to back down. In 2018-19 he registered 199 hits to go along with 46 blocks playing in all 82 games for the Hurricanes. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too. If the Rangers could get him at just a small increase to his last deal, he’s be a great fourth liner.

Nick Ritchie (Forward – 25 y/o – $1.5M AAV): This past season was a good one for the now 25 year-old UFA as he notched 26 points in 56 games for Boston. He is considered a quality 3rd line guy that should be snatched up pretty quickly.

Ryan Getzlaf (Center – 36 y/o – $8.25M AAV): He is getting up there in age but is a proven winner. Getzlaf will also be coming off the last year of a big contract that paid $8.25 million. The 6’4″ pivot notched just 18 points in 48 games. He could be a cheap add for the Rangers as a fourth line center, that could move up in case of injury.

Luke Glendening (Center – 32 y/o – $1.8M AAV): Offensively, the 32 year-old Glendening is not going to bring much to the table, but that’s not why you would sign him. For his career, he has a winning FO% of 54.8 and is without a doubt a specialist.

Rangers could aim higher with these players

Should the Rangers not land a center like Jack Eichel or to a lesser extent, Evgeny Kuznetsov they could spend some money on bigger named free agents.

Phillip Danault (Center – 28 y/o – $3M AAV): Would you spend $6 million plus on a third line center? What if Chris Drury sees him as a 2nd line pivot? During the regular season, he put up a respectable 24 points in 53 games. His face-off percentage of 52.5 shows his consistency and effectiveness in the dots. For his career, he wins 53.8% of the draws he takes. He is a shutdown center who is respectable offensively.

Casey Cizikas (Center – 30 y/o – $3.35M AAV): The Islanders “Identity Line” center will be a free agent many teams will target; unless Lou Lamoriello already has him inked to a deal. He wins draws, and scores clutch goals in the postseason. Cizikas isn’t physically imposing at 5-11 and 195 lbs but he plays so much bigger than his size.

Blake Coleman (Center – 29 y/o – $1.8M AAV): The center turned winger had himself an excellent season for the Tampa Bay Lightning with 31 points in 55 games. At 5-11 and 200 lbs, he is a solid forward who is aggressive on the puck, and hits with purpose. This season he racked up 109 hits but has been known to throw his body a lot more. Here’s the rub, he’s looking for a massive new deal in the 6 year range at around $5M AAV.

Latest NHL Rumors

Ryan Suter in Dallas? Bruins after Dvorak? Read the latest rumors here.

However, if there is an opportunity to upgrade and also have a backup plan should Mike Zibanejad want to test the free agency in 2022, the Rangers have to look into it.

The Blueshirts aren’t just looking for another elite center; they are looking to improve on the third and fourth line center slots as well.

Rangers best options to land a top center

Top Option: Trade for Jack Eichel

Depending on their comfortability with Jack Eichel’s neck issue, Drury will likely pull the trigger on a blockbuster deal involving the #15 pick in the lottery and possibly two prized prospects in Vitali Kravtsov and Zac Jones. Is that enough? The Sabres have lowered their astronomical price in recent weeks, but it’s still hefty.

“I heard the price on Eichel is high,” Elliotte Friedman noted on his latest podcast . “It’s not as high as it was before but it’s still high. And it’s young. Your best prospects and picks.”

Eichel checks all the boxes when healthy. He’s an elite center, and is insurance if the Rangers and Mika Zibanejad fail to come to an extension before the NHL trade deadline next season. He’s the perfect age at 24 to grow with this young ensemble cast. And while the Rangers interest had cooled in May it has heated back up.

Fall Back Options: Trade for Sean Monahan or Evgeny Kuznetsov

Monahan has two years remaining on a deal that has a $6.375 AAV and is coming off a down season. Some believe that it would lower the cost of acquisition, but I doubt it. However, he had hip surgery and is expected to be ready for next season. That could be a factor to drive the cost down, not one bad season.

For his career, Monahan has 439 points in 591 games. That is a points per game average of .74 since he broke into the NHL at 19 and played 75 games. It will likely take two key young pieces in Filip Chytil and Zac Jones to acquire him, maybe more. The question here is simple; is he really a big upgrade over Ryan Strome? I’m not sure.

The Capitals are rumored to be willing to move Kuznetsov and his $7.8 million cap hit for the next four years. He has a 15 team no move clause, and comes with a buyer beware sign. It’s been reported that they have run out of patience with his antics. Kuznetsov was disciplined several times this season by the organization, and that needs to be taken into consideration.

The cost will be less for Kuznetsov than Eichel but a major red flag must be raised here.

Free Agency for the third line

Third Line Gamble: Phillip Danault

News broke last night that Philip Danault is going to hit the free agent market. Last season he rejected a six year deal worth $5 million per season. Montreal will not be improving on that offer, but is a defensive shut down center worth almost $6 million? That’s a tough question because it’s obvious being deep in the middle is a recipe for success in the NHL.

The 28 year-old pivot is coming off a deal that paid $3 million per season. During the regular season, he put up a respectable 24 points in 53 games. His face-off percentage of 52.5 shows his consistency and effectiveness in the dots. For his career, he wins 53.8% of the draws he takes. This is an area of weakness for the Blueshirts and one they need to address this offseason.

Taking a chance: Casey Cizikas

The general thought is that Cizikas will hit the market. He’s coming off a deal that paid him $3.35 million and in line for a raise. The question is simple, is a fourth line center worth that much money? What if he could play third line?

At 30 years-old he isn’t a kid and the Rangers need to balance their neophyte lineup better. Cizikas finished the season with 14 points in 56 games and face-off win percentage of 53.2. Can he score more with better offensive line mates not named Matt Martin and Cal Clutterbuck? It’s a risk that could work out, regardless he’s too expensive for the 4th line.

Must get a top 4th line center

Best Option: Barclay Goodrow

This is the one free agent I am now leaning towards as a must get for the Rangers. The 28 year-old is big and strong. He can skate and produce on the bottom six with 20 points in 55 games. Goodrow is also considered one of the best penalty killers in the game and is solid in the face-off circle.

Chris Drury needs to make this Stanley Cup Champion a priority to sign on July 28th. Goodrow made $925K this past season and is worth more, but still very affordable.

NHL Trade Rumors

Latest rumors concerning players likely to hit the market. Read more?

“It’s hard not to watch these playoffs and notice the physicality, the energy, the effort and the intensity it takes to win and to succeed and we’re certainly going to need to play that way to have success in the regular season and in the playoffs,” Chris Drury said heading into the summer. “We’re always looking at ways to improve the lineup, to add different pieces, just like every team in the league, and every team in the league is watching these playoffs – you know we all want harder players to play against and we’re no different.”

Below is an updated list of UFA targets for the Rangers this summer including their position, age, and last contract AAV. The tiers and players are also ranked from highest to lowest.

New York Rangers UFA Targets: Top Priority

When we look at the Rangers, there’s no doubt that reshaping their third and fourth line is now a top priority. The following five players are exactly what Gerard Gallant will need on his roster to not only play the way he wants, but to compete in the postseason when the games become harder.

Casey Cizikas (Center – 30 y/o – $3.35M AAV): The Islanders “Identity Line” center should be the top free agent the Rangers should target. He wins draws, and scores clutch goals in the postseason. Cizikas isn’t physically imposing at 5-11 and 195 lbs but he plays so much bigger than his size. It’s unlikely that Lou Lamoriello will be able to keep him.

Blake Coleman (Center – 29 y/o – $1.8M AAV): The center turned winger had himself an excellent season for the Tampa Bay Lightning with 31 points in 55 games. At 5-11 and 200 lbs, he is a solid forward who is aggressive on the puck, and hits with purpose. This season he racked up 109 hits but has been known to throw his body a lot more.

Barclay Goodrow (Center – 28 y/o – $925K AAV): Another member of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Goodrow is a big man at 6-2 and 215 lbs. This season he scored 20 points in 55 games. For his career, he wins 52% of the draws he takes and would be a nice 4th line pivot if Cizikas can’t be signed.

Jordan Martinook (Forward – 29 y/o – $2M AAV): Martinook is ferocious forechecker and physical player that refuses to back down. In 2018-19 he registered 199 hits to go along with 46 blocks playing in all 82 games for the Hurricanes. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too. If the Rangers could get him at just a small increase to his last deal, he’s be a great fourth liner.

Luke Glendening (Center – 32 y/o – $1.8M AAV): Offensively, Glendening is not going to bring much to the table, but that’s not why you would sign him. For his career, he has a winning FO% of 54.8 and is without a doubt a specialist.

Brandon Sutter (Center – 32 y/o – $4.35M AAV): The Huntington, NY native is a big man at 6-3 and 190 lbs. He scored 12 points in 43 games for Vancouver last season and won 55.5% of his draws. He’s no longer worth the money he used to make, and could be a nice cheap option in what will be a competitive UFA market.

Secondary Targets

The Rangers are said to be in the market for a veteran defenseman, preferably someone with big game experience. This falls under a nice-to-have bucket, but I would not overpay to add to a position of strength, albeit a very young position.

Jamie Oleksiak (Left Defense – 28 y/o – $2.1M AAV): Dallas is rumored to do whatever it takes to sign him before free agency begins. So it is very possible he won’t be there when the bell rings to open up the buying. However, if he is the Rangers should look to add him. Should they go this route, that likely means K’Andre Miller will be slotted for less minutes on the third pair.

Patrik Nemeth (Left Defense – 28 y/o – $3M AAV): The Avalanche picked up the rugged defenseman from the Detroit Red Wings and he played very well. At 6-3 and 228 lbs, he is a physical presence that could certainly play quality third pair minutes.

Niklas Hjalmarsson (Left Defense – 34 y/o – $5M AAV): If the Rangers are looking for someone with Stanley Cup experience on a short term deal to shore up their third pair, Hjalmarsson would be a smart move. During his heyday with the Blackhawks, he helped drive puck possession and won Cups. The question is what does he think he’s worth after picking up just 5 points in 41 games for the Coyotes this past season.

Zdeno Chara (Left Defense – 44 y/o – $795K AAV): This elder statesman and future Hall of Famer actually considered the Rangers before signing with the Capitals. He has yet to decide if he will continue his career, but a one year deal at under a million would make sense for Drury.

Big Fish: Proceed with caution

There’s plenty of big free agents out there. Some, like Alex Ovechkin and Gabriel Landeskog will remain there until the expansion draft passes and then sign with their current teams. However, there are other names that would be serious upgrades for the Rangers but have major risks.

Age is one factor because these UFA’s will get multi-year deals on the open market. They will also command salaries north of $5 million which could have cap implications for years to come.

Phillip Danault (Center – 28 y/o – $3M AAV): Would you spend $6 million plus on a third line center? During the regular season, he put up a respectable 24 points in 53 games. His face-off percentage of 52.5 shows his consistency and effectiveness in the dots. For his career, he wins 53.8% of the draws he takes. He is a shutdown center who is respectable offensively. This is the one player on this list I would certainly take the risk with. The Rangers should only consider Danault at $5 million or less.

Zach Hyman (Left Wing 29 y/o – $2.25M AAV): If the Rangers want to be harder to play against, Zach Hyman is that type of player. Problem is he is looking for over $6 million per season on a 6-7 year deal. That’s a big risk at his age. Plus he’s a left wing and the Rangers are overloaded there. Still, he does fit the bill for what Gallant and Drury want to do.

Alec Martinez (Left Defense – 34 y/o – $4M AAV): He is a proven winner, and Rangers fans are painfully aware of it after he scored the Cup winning goal against Henrik Lundqvist in 2014. Martinez would automatically jump into the top four, which would push Miller to a third pair role. There’s mutual interest in staying with Vegas so he may not be around come July 28 anyway.

NHL News

What a lousy 24 hours for Canadiens forward Brendan Gallagher. Read more here.

Jordan Martinook headed to Free Agency

It looks like Jordan Martinook will become an unrestricted free agent on July 28th.

Looks like there will be some churn among Carolina’s depth forwards. Jordan Martinook wants to see if he can beat the Hurricanes’ offer on the open market, and there are Warren Foegele trade talks. Both player and team appear to want a change.

31 Thoughts

The Carolina Hurricanes forward was identified early on as a perfect UFA target for the Rangers to revamp their bottom six. “We’ve got to get to a place where when you jump over the boards you know what your role is,” Chris Drury said about his vision for the team next season. If he wants a role player, Martinook is a good candidate.

Martinook turns 29 in July so term is a concern, but not a deal breaker if he wants something along the lines of five years. His style of play is perfect for third or fourth line duties, and would be the start of the Rangers very own identity line. At 6-1 and 204 lbs, he’s an irritating in-your-face style of player that can chip in some occasional offense.

This past season, he had 13 points in 43 games and is coming off a deal paying $2 million. If the Rangers can get him at under $3 million AAV, it would be a great get for Drury.

Casey Cizikas likely headed to free agency

The Islanders will be an interesting team this offseason with only around $5 million in cap space. This summer they must re-sign RFA’s Ilya Sorokin, Anthony Beauvillier and Adam Pelech above all UFAs. Lou Lamoriello stated this morning that he is going to get them all done. The back-to-back GM of the Year winner also noted that he expects it will be difficult to bring all his players back next season.

Unrestricted free agents Kyle Palmieri and Casey Cizikas being at the top of that list for the Islanders. Both want to stay, and Lamoriello would like to bring both back, but that’s going to be difficult.

Cizikas is similar to Martinook in age at 30 years-old. So a five year deal shouldn’t scare the Rangers away. He’s coming off a deal that paid him $3.35 million and in line for a raise. The question is simple, is a fourth line center worth that much money? Traditionally, I would say no. However, being strong down the middle is one reason why the Lightning and Canadiens are in the Stanley Cup Final.

His ability to win draws and score clutch goals makes him a more valuable piece than your average fourth liner.

NHL Rumors

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins is not hitting free agency and the Rangers back in on Eichel? Read more here.

Gerard Gallant doing the media rounds

Gerard Gallant was a star player in the NHL with the Detroit Red Wings prior to becoming a head coach. He’s been successful in all three NHL stops which includes the Columbus Blue Jackets, Florida Panthers, and Vegas Golden Knights. The 57 year-old coach has a record of 270-216-4-51 for a .550 points percentage.

Below is the video clip of his appearance on NHL Network via Twitter:

Gerard Gallant plans to work hard, have fun and win hockey games in the Big 🍎
@NYRangers | #NHLNow pic.twitter.com/o7dSKxiKms

— NHL Media (@NHLMedia) June 27, 2021

He was brought in to win, and to make the playoffs and he stated that clearly to the NY Post late last week.

“Well, I want to win a Stanley Cup,” Gallant said. “I never won a Stanley Cup. I enjoy the game, I still have a lot of fun coming to the rink, and I got two grandboys, 4 and 5 years old, and they’re pretty happy to see grandpa coaching an NHL hockey team.”

Check out Steve Serby’s full interview here.

Casey Cizikas on pending free agency

One of the top targets in free agency that Chris Drury should look at is Islanders center Casey Cizikas. Yesterday as the team was conducting break up day interviews Cizikas did not want to talk about it. “That’s a conversation for another day,” he said. “I think right now, I’m just focused on being with the guys, spending these last few days before everybody heads their own way.”

His line mates Matt Martin and Cal Clutterbuck both want him to stay but realize the business side of things. Head coach Barry Trotz seemed to have a more definitive opinion. “He’s an Islander,” he said with authority. “You know it and I know it.”

NHL Rumors

Catch up on all the Rumors from last week here.

“It’s hard not to watch these playoffs and notice the physicality, the energy, the effort and the intensity it takes to win and to succeed and we’re certainly going to need to play that way to have success in the regular season and in the playoffs,” he said. “We’re always looking at ways to improve the lineup, to add different pieces, just like every team in the league, and every team in the league is watching these playoffs – you know we all want harder players to play against and we’re no different.”

Below is a baker’s dozen of UFA targets for the Rangers this summer including their position, age, and last contract AAV. The tiers and players are also ranked from highest to lowest.

New York Rangers UFA Targets: Top Priority

When we look at the Rangers, there’s no doubt that reshaping their third and fourth line is now a top priority. The following five players are exactly what Gerard Gallant will need on his roster to not only play the way he wants, but to compete in the postseason when the games become harder.

Casey Cizikas (Center – 30 y/o – $3.35M AAV): The Islanders “Identity Line” center should be the top free agent the Rangers should target. He wins draws, and scores clutch goals in the postseason. Cizikas isn’t physically imposing at 5-11 and 195 lbs but he plays so much bigger than his size.

Blake Coleman (Center – 29 y/o – $1.8M AAV): The center turned winger had himself an excellent season for the Tampa Bay Lightning with 31 points in 55 games. At 5-11 and 200 lbs, he is a solid forward who is aggressive on the puck, and hits with purpose. This season he racked up 109 hits but has been known to throw his body a lot more.

Jordan Martinook (Forward – 29 y/o – $2M AAV): Martinook is ferocious forechecker and physical player that refuses to back down. In 2018-19 he registered 199 hits to go along with 46 blocks playing in all 82 games for the Hurricanes. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too. If the Rangers could get him at just a small increase to his last deal, he’s be a great fourth liner.

Barclay Goodrow (Center – 28 y/o – $925K AAV): Another member of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Goodrow is a big man at 6-2 and 215 lbs. This season he scored 20 points in 55 games. For his career, he wins 52% of the draws he takes and would be a nice 4th line pivot if Cizikas can’t be signed.

Luke Glendening (Center – 32 y/o – $1.8M AAV): Offensively, Glendening is not going to bring much to the table, but that’s not why you would sign him. For his career, he has a winning FO% of 54.8 and is without a doubt a specialist.

Secondary Targets

The Rangers are said to be in the market for a veteran defenseman, preferably someone with big game experience. This falls under a nice-to-have bucket, but I would not overpay to add to a position of strength, albeit a very young position.

Jamie Oleksiak (Left Defense – 28 y/o – $2.1M AAV): Dallas is rumored to do whatever it takes to sign him before free agency begins. So it is very possible he won’t be there when the bell rings to open up the buying. However, if he is the Rangers should look to add him. Should they go this route, that likely means K’Andre Miller will be slotted for less minutes on the third pair.

Niklas Hjalmarsson (Left Defense – 34 y/o – $5M AAV): If the Rangers are looking for someone with Stanley Cup experience on a short term deal to shore up their third pair, Hjalmarsson would be a smart move. During his heyday with the Blackhawks, he helped drive puck possession and won Cups. The question is what does he think he’s worth after picking up just 5 points in 41 games for the Coyotes this past season.

Zdeno Chara (Left Defense – 44 y/o – $795K AAV): This elder statesman and future Hall of Famer actually considered the Rangers before signing with the Capitals. He has yet to decide if he will continue his career, but a one year deal at under a million would make sense for Drury.

Marc Staal (Left Defense – 34 y/o – $5.7M AAV): He knows the pressures of playing in NY after 13 seasons on Broadway. He was also teammates with Drury from 2007-2011, and could be a low-cost add as a 6th or 7th defender. However, the Detroit Red Wings have already shown interest in re-signing him after playing a huge leadership role for their young defense.

Big Fish: Proceed with caution

There’s plenty of big free agents out there. Some, like Alex Ovechkin and Gabriel Landeskog will remain there until the expansion draft passes and then sign with their current teams. However, there are other names that would be serious upgrades for the Rangers but have major risks.

Age is one factor because these UFA’s will get multi-year deals on the open market. They will also command salaries north of $5 million which could have cap implications for years to come.

Phillip Danault (Center – 28 y/o – $3M AAV): Would you spend $6 million plus on a third line center? During the regular season, he put up a respectable 24 points in 53 games. His face-off percentage of 52.5 shows his consistency and effectiveness in the dots. For his career, he wins 53.8% of the draws he takes. He is a shutdown center who is respectable offensively. This is the one player on this list I would certainly take the risk with.

Alec Martinez (Left Defense – 34 y/o – $4M AAV): He is a proven winner, and Rangers fans are painfully aware of it after he scored the Cup winning goal against Henrik Lundqvist in 2014. Martinez would automatically jump into the top four, which would push Miller to a third pair role. There’s mutual interest in staying with Vegas so he may not be around come July 28 anyway.

Ryan Nugent-Hopkins (Forward – 28 y/o – $6M AAV): There’s still a lot of belief that RNH and the Oilers will come to terms. The center turned winger could easily shift back down the middle if the Rangers feel he would be an upgrade over Strome. I am not sure that is a guarantee as he only scored 35 points in 52 games playing on a team with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Strome for what it’s worth scored 49 points.

Zach Hyman (Left Wing 29 y/o – $2.25M AAV): If the Rangers want to be harder to play against, Zach Hyman is that type of player. Problem is he is looking for over $6 million per season on a 6-7 year deal. That’s a big risk at his age. Plus he’s a left wing and the Rangers are overloaded there. Still, he does fit the bill for what Gallant and Drury want to do.

Latest NHL Rumors

The Golden Knights are on deck for Jack Eichel. Read more here.

The Next New York Rangers coach…

The biggest question currently surrounding the New York Rangers focuses on their search for a new coach. What is taking so long and why have we only heard of two names being interviewed? It can’t be possible that Chris Drury only talked with Rick Tocchet and Gerard Gallant.

Pierre LeBrun reported that Gallant’s interview went well and Darren Dreger said he’d be “gobsmacked if Gallant didn’t end up in New York” – so what’s the delay? Rod Brind’Amour apparently is holding up the works here. There’s a chance, albeit a small one that he could leave the Hurricanes for the Rangers.

Of course, I believe chasing Brind’Amour is a red herring and he’s using his leverage as a free agent to get the Canes to increase their offer and get his assistants taken care of as well.

Prediction: Gerard Gallant will be the next Rangers coach

And the Seattle Kraken select from the Rangers…

The Blueshirts will need to submit their list of protected players to the league by 5 p.m. ET on July 17. This is when we will definitively know whom the Rangers will be protecting and exposing. The Seattle Expansion Draft will take place on July 21.

Projected Protected Forwards:

• Pavel Buchnevich
• Ryan Strome
• Filip Chytil
• Colin Blackwell
• Mika Zibanejad (NMC)
• Artemi Panarin (NMC)
• Chris Kreider (NMC)

Projected Protected Defensemen and Goalie:

• Jacob Trouba (NMC)
• Ryan Lindgren
• Libor Hajek
• Alexandar Georgiev

Key Exemption list: Alexis Lafrenière, Kaapo Kakko, Vitali Kravtsov, Adam Fox, K’Andre Miller, and Igor Shesterkin.

Key Projected Exposed list: Tony DeAngelo, Brett Howden, Julian Gauthier, Kevin Rooney, and Keith Kinkaid.

Prediction: Brett Howden will be selected by the Kraken

And with the 15th selection in the Draft the Rangers…

Forever Blueshirts reported that the New York Rangers first round pick is indeed in play this offseason. On July 23rd -24th the NHL Draft will take place and Chris Drury currently holds the 15th selection after the lottery drawing.

There’s been speculation that the Rangers, who have an overload of young players and prospects would package the 15th overall pick. A knowledgeable source confirmed that all options are on the table this summer and that includes moving the first round selection.

I truly believe that the Rangers will trade their first round pick to improve the lineup this season with NHL ready talent.

Prediction: They will trade the pick, but if not they will take the best center available

New York Rangers trade for…

The worst kept secret in the NHL is the Rangers desire to acquire another top center. This isn’t a knock on Ryan Strome who has been excellent since his acquisition, and even better with Artemi Panarin on his flank. As good as he’s been, the Blueshirts could also move him to the third line and make center one of their strongest positions. That is if they can execute the right deal for a pivot.

From what I can gather, Aleksander Barkov is unlikely to be moved in this offseason. That leaves Evgeny Kuznetsov and Jack Eichel as the two known centers available for a trade. Sean Monahan is also rumored to be available.

The Rangers are going to play this one tight, and they likely will be using the aforementioned first round pick in this deal. If Monahan is on the market, he will automatically move ahead of Kuznetsov. In the end, it will be the one player New York has been linked to the most in trade rumors.

Prediction: Jack Eichel will be on Broadway

Rangers sign in free agency…

Chris Drury has a check list this summer, and one of the top items reshaping the bottom six. I’ve mentioned several names which includes Blake Coleman, Jordan Martinook, and Casey Cizikas.

Both Coleman and Cizikas are still playing, but Martinook is now heading home. When asked about his future he admitted he could be elsewhere, but he made it clear where he wants to be. “At the end of the day, it’s obviously a business,” Martinook said. “I want to stay here, but I have a family. I just had a baby girl, so I have to look out for myself and my family. I want to be a Hurricane, so hopefully we can make that happen.”

However, I believe Drury already has his free agent signing list prioritized and a center who can win face-off is it. Two names pop up for me in the Islanders Casey Cizikas and Detroit’s Luke Glendening. One of these players will be taking key draws next season.

Prediction: Casey Cizikas signs with the Blueshirts on July 28th

NHL Rumors

Latest on the Rod Brind’Amour situation here.

Hiring the right coach will be key, but creating a balanced multidimensional lineup is just as important. “We need to take a deep look at what everyone’s roles are,” Drury hinted to his offseason approach. “We’ve got to get to a place where when you jump over the boards you know what your role is.” It sounded almost like indictment to how the third and fourth lines were handled this past season. A mistake Drury and whomever the new coach will be cannot repeat.

Here are several candidates that Drury should consider this offseason.

New York Rangers bottom six candidate: Zach Hyman

Zach Hyman is a 28 year-old pending UFA whom the Maple Leafs want desperately to retain. His next contract is likely to come in at the $5.5-$6 million range which could be more than Toronto can handle. This past season he scored 33 points in 43 games, primarily as a winger. The 6-1 Hyman has some experience playing center and has taken over 650 face-offs in his career which spans 345 games.

The gritty forward remains an unlikely candidate based on the cap hit his next deal will bring. However, if the Blueshirts are unable to bring in a top center he could move up on their list.

Blake Coleman would be a great fit

The 29 year-old center turned winger had himself an excellent season for the Tampa Bay Lightning with 31 points in 55 games. Coleman averaged 15:11 during the year and would be a nice fit to the Blueshirts third line.

At 5-11 and 200 lbs, he is a solid forward who is aggressive on the puck, and hits with purpose. This season he racked up 109 hits but has been known to throw his body a lot more. Prior to the 2020-21 campaign, starting in 2017 he had 216, 225, and 191 his respectively. The guy is a wrecking ball and is the type of player that makes the opposition defense look over their shoulder before playing the puck.

He will be an unrestricted free agent this season and the Rangers should give him a look. Coleman is coming off a deal that pays him $1.8 million AAV on the cap, and an increase is coming. The cap-strapped Lightning will likely let him walk, which will make him a very attractive player on the market come July 28th.

With his 20 goal potential, he will be commanding a nice contract. I would expect something in the $3-4 million range for about five seasons. It’s something Drury should consider. If he’s serious about making the playoffs and having effective players that can play a third line role, Coleman is a good place to start.

Jordan Martinook would add grit and leadership

Jordan Martinook with the Carolina Hurricanes is someone that fits the bill for me. He willl turn 29 in July but can play a high intensity style with an in-your-face attitude at 6-1 and 204 lbs. Martinook won’t come cheap as he’s coming off a deal paying $2 million, and looking for an increase. Another plus, Martinook can also take some draws.

This season, he has 13 points in 43 games. If that gives you pause, then you are also under the same illusion that some other fans have that every player on the roster should be a skill guy. Martinook does have skills however, they just better fit a third or fourth line role.

Martinook is ferocious forechecker. A physical player that refuses to back down. In 2018-19 he registered 199 hits to go along with 46 blocks playing in all 82 games for the Hurricanes. The guy is also vocal in the locker-room, beloved by his teammates, and wears a letter on his sweater too.

Casey Cizikas should be Rangers top target

Here’s my advice for Drury, go out and kill two birds with one stone. Sign Islanders center Casey Cizikas and add a piece the Rangers need while hurting your divisional rival.

The Rangers were bulldozed by the Islanders this season. James Dolan basically got tired of watching Matt Martin, Cal Clutterbuck, and Casey Cizikas run all over his skilled collection of players. The owner basically pointed to the losses to the Isles and the Tom Wilson incident as part of his reasoning for the management changes.

Cizikas is not a large player at 5-11 and 195 lbs, but he can still be the lynchpin to a stellar fourth line and win key face-offs. Losing draws is something the Rangers desperately need to address this offseason as well.

At 30 years-old he isn’t a kid and the Rangers need to balance that their neophyte lineup better. He’s coming off a deal that paid him $3.35 million so he’s not cheap. While that seems expensive for a fourth line player, the Islanders are pretty thrilled with him. Cizikas finished the season with 14 points in 56 games and face-off win percentage of 53.2.

Big Sunday NHL Rumors Update

NHL Rumors Roundup is a new feature at The Daily Goal Horn. Every Sunday they bring you the latest rumors and update some of the bigger stories from the week before. In this edition, we kick off with the latest on Jack Eichel and the Sabres disconnect. Read it all here.