In all likelihood, the Rangers defensive corps will look a tad different next season with Erik Gustafsson due to hit the open market on July 1 and Ryan Lindgren and Braden Schneider needing RFA deals. All signs point to Gustafsson signing elsewhere and Schneider getting a bridge deal. Lindgren is more up in the air, seeking a pay raise from his $3 million average annual value, plus long-term security since he can become an unrestricted free agent after the 2024-25 season.

Zac Jones impressed in an NHL career-high 31 games this past season and could slide in on the third pairing. But even then, the Rangers need to add a 6th/7th defenseman since Ben Harpur is the only other veteran option in the system, currently with the Hartford Wolf Pack.

The dynamics and free-agent targets change if Drury elects to buy out captain Jacob Trouba, a move that would shock the locker room but free up some cap space, and require the Rangers to seek an upgrade.

The Rangers enter this offseason with $12.45 million in projected cap space after NHL commissioner Gary Bettman announced that the salary cap is going up to $88 million next season. It’s by no means a lost of space, but there’s enough flexibility to make a valuable add or two on the backend.

That said, let’s examine the two tiers of defensemen the Rangers could consider signing this offseason.

Related: 2023-24 Rangers report cards: Grading the defensemen

Rangers could pursue these free agents to be 6th/7th defenseman

Here are some defensemen that could replace Gustafsson as a 6th/7th defenseman, listed in alphabetical order.

Sebastian Aho

The “other” Sebastian Aho is set to become a free agent at the conclusion of his second two-year UFA deal with the New York Islanders.

He’s spent the entirety of his five-year NHL career on Long Island, serving mostly as a bottom-pairing blue-liner and seventh defenseman.

It was not a pretty season for the 28-year-old, who posted nine points and a minus-7 mark in 58 games, all while grading out very poorly, ranking in the eighth percentile overall (per Evolving Hockey). However, he was very strong the season prior, putting up 23 points in 71 games and ranking in the 87th percentile defensively.

Aho hit the cap at an $825,000 average annual value the past two seasons, the highest mark of his career. Coming off a rough season, he can’t expect much of a raise.

He’s not someone you dream about in your top-six, but Aho’s NHL experience (190 games) and the hope of rekindling his performance from a very positive 2022-23 season would make him a decent seventh defenseman at a price that likely sits close to the League minimum.

Calvin De Haan

Calvin De Haan served a similar role to what the Rangers might be looking for with the Tampa Bay Lightning this past season.

As a depth defenseman, De Haan appeared in 59 games and had 10 points and a minus-9 rating on 16:38 ATOI. He found himself out of the rotation toward the end of the season, playing just one game in the Lightning’s five-game loss to the Florida Panthers in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and logging just two regular-season games in April.

However, De Haan graded out fairly well in the Evolving Hockey charts, ranking in the 75th percentile defensively and eating up important minutes for a Lightning defense unit that lost Mikhail Sergachev for two-and-a-half months after a nasty lower-body injury.

De Haan is entering his age-33 season, and while no longer the same player he was in his prime when he averaged at least 18:30 per game from age 22 to age 30, he’s an experienced NHLer with 632 NHL games played and the ability to give a solid look on the bottom pairing.

Again, Jones is probably the more exciting option to play regularly, but someone like De Haan would provide an adequate safety blanket as a trustworthy defensive fill-in. He signed a one-year, $775,000 UFA deal with Tampa Bay last offseason and a similar contract would easily fit with the New York’s current cap situation.

Mark Giordano

The prospect of signing former NHL All-Star Mark Giordano, who will turn 41 next season, seems a bit out of left field. It’s not even a guarantee he will return to play another season.

However, there are parallels between this and the Rangers signing of Blake Wheeler last offseason to a League-minimum contract. Granted, Wheeler, a forwards was 37 at the time and coming off a solid 55-point season.

That aside, it’s clear Drury values experience and leadership in the locker room. Jonathan Quick ended up being a very savvy pickup, playing well above expectations. Both he and Wheeler were brought in as former top players in the League who could add elements of leadership and wisdom to the room.

Serving nine seasons as a captain, eight of which came with the Calgary Flames with whom he won the Mark Messier Leadership Award during the 2019-20 season, Giordano is widely respected throughout the League.

His play has been equally respectable, even as he continues to age. A broken finger and concussion limited him to 46 games this season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, but he managed nine points and a plus-10 rating. He averaged 16:37 minutes in ice time per game, and Evolving Hockey graded him above average defensively in the 63rd percentile.

He’s no longer the offensive threat who scored 79 points and won the Norris Trophy in 2018-19, but he’s still a serviceable defenseman who could play a similar locker room role to what Wheeler and Quick did this past season.

Giordano’s hit the cap at an $800,000 AAV on his most recent two-year deal, so if he does indeed return for his 19th NHL season, it would likely be at a similar salary.

Kevin Shattenkirk

Kevin Shattenkirk spent two disappointing seasons with the rebuilding Blueshirts from 2017 to 2019, but has largely been a solid offensive defenseman in the NHL. He most recently landed with the Boston Bruins, joining his seventh different franchise, on a one-year, $1.05 million deal.

Shattenkirk’s set to be a UFA again after scoring six goals and 24 points in 61 games. Of the four names listed here as bottom-pairing options, he has by far the most offensive upside, as he’s posted 20-plus points in 13 of his 14 NHL seasons.

He’s not super impressive on the defensive end, but his 80th-percentile offensive ranking is well above average for a blue-liner.

Shattenkirk is a bit more expensive than the previous defensemen mentioned in this tier, and the only one who’s a right-shot, who’d likely be asked to play the left side more often than not. That coupled with some subpar defensive play doesn’t make him the most appealing option for a sixth/seventh defenseman, but it would provide the Rangers with another offensive option and candidate for power-play quarterback, not unlike the role Gustafsson served this past season.

Rangers options in free agency if Jacob Trouba’s contract is bought out

The options get a bit more exciting if the Rangers buy out Trouba. Keep in mind, a buyout doesn’t take all of Trouba’s $8 million AAV off the books. There would be $4 million in dead cap over the next two seasons and $2 million for the two after.

Still, that’s an extra $4 million to play with on top of the $12.45 in projected cap space, which would allow Drury to search for someone capable of playing in the top four with a maximum of $4-5 million AAV.

Given the benefit of that extra cushion, there are a few enticing names Drury could pursue, listed in alphabetical order.

Alexandre Carrier

Alexandre Carrier re-upped with the Nashville Predators last offseason on a one-year, $2.5 million UFA deal. After another very solid season and helping the Predators reach the postseason, he’s due for another deal and probably a bit of a pay raise.

Carrier and Jeremy Lauzon played the most minutes (78.2) of any D-pairing during Nashville’s first-round loss to the Vancouver Canucks in six games. Carrier himself posted the third-highest ATOI of the blue-liners, behind Roman Josi and Ryan McDonagh.

Carrier had 20 points and was plus-7, averaging 18:38 TOI while ranking 87th in defensive percentile during the regular season. He’s also right-shot D which would allow him to replace Trouba’s spot in the defensive corp. Carrier is also three years younger than Trouba, and like the Rangers captain, is more than willing to block shots in front of his goalie (137 this season).

While he’s due for a bump up in salary, it should still be something in the Rangers range if Trouba is bought out.

Shayne Gostisbehere

Shayne Gostisbehere is a prolific offensive defenseman who will once again be looking for a UFA deal after settling for a one-year, $4.1 million contract with the Detroit Red Wings last offseason.

A left-shot defenseman who can play the right side, something he did for nearly 100 minutes with the Red Wings this season, Gostisbehere is a player that’s been linked to the Rangers previously.

With such little cap space last offseason, the idea of signing him was barely a thought. Now with more flexibility this offseason and help from a hypothetical Trouba buyout, Drury could potentially fit this dynamic blue-liner under the cap.

Gostisbehere scored 10 goals and 56 points, his second 50-plus point season in the past three, and the second-highest point total of his career behind a 65-point output with the Philadelphia Flyers in 2017-2018.

Similar to the Shattenkirk conversation, Gostisbehere’s defensive metrics leave something to be desired, ranking below average in the 34th percentile over the past three-year span. With Adam Fox and K’Andre Miller already on the backend, it doesn’t feel like there’s as much of a need for a player like Gostisbehere as there once was, but he’d certainly add juice to the Blueshirts attack.

The New York Rangers remain interested in plenty of potential trade targets, but with the deadline just one day away they are playing it very cool.

Chris Drury brought in speedy third-liner Frankie Vatrano for a fourth-round pick earlier last week. Right now, he’s holding a spot for Kaapo Kakko on the second line as he remains out with an upper-body injury.

Gerard Gallant last updated Kakko and Kevin Rooney’s injury status as week-to-week. It’s possible both could be back after the deadline, but neither has participated in a practice yet.

New York Rangers interest in Andrew Copp growing

Andrew Copp is a name for Rangers fans to start keeping an eye on over the next 24 hours. The 27 year-old is due to become a UFA, and is most likely going to be moved by the Winnipeg Jets.

“Hearing that conversation around Andrew Copp are intensifying,” Elliotte Friedman said on HNIC. “Versatile forward would be very valuable. Boston, Rangers, and Colorado especially are teams interested in him.”

This season, Copp has 13 goals and 32 points in 55 games. The Michigan born forward can play a little center but has been used primarily on the wing. His current cap hit is $3.64M and he will be looking for an increase next season.

There is very little regarding what the Jets are looking for, but one can assume with the cost of other rentals that it could very well be a first-round pick.

Rangers still trying to land Mark Giordano

The next big rental defenseman on the market is Seattle Kraken captain, Mark Giordano. According to multiple reports, GM Ron Francis wants a first-round pick for the lefty.

It’s also being noted that a lot of the contenders vying for his services don’t want to give up a first rounder for the 38 year-old veteran.

Giordano is a Toronto native and will be a pending UFA this summer. He’s registered 23 points in 55 games this season. The word out there is that he would like to play for his hometown team and they want him too. However, the Rangers are very much in play.

“I think the Maple Leafs have some competition (for Giordano) with the Rangers,” Friedman said. “One of things that Kyle Dubas has made very clear that he doesn’t want to trade his 1st-rd pick or prospects for rentals.”

Would Chris Drury opt to give Seattle what they want? If so, I think the deal would’ve been done already. This could come down to the wire tomorrow.

Other notes

Rickard Rakell is still the Rangers top target but there’s no doubt that it will take a first-round pick and more to land him.

Pat Verbeek has already moved two out of three of his big UFA rentals in Josh Manson and Hampus Lindholm. In return, he’s already received two good prospects and a boatload of draft picks which include a 1st-rd selection from the Bruins, and three 2nd-rd picks.

The cost of Rakell is rightfully where it needs to be and several teams are after him. Chris Drury needs to do his best to land Rakell and bolster the team’s offense. Plus, he doesn’t want the Penguins to land him. A team the Rangers are very likely to face in the first round.

By the way things are way too quiet on Rickard Rakell right now. #NYR, #GoAvsGo, #NHLBruins, #LetsGoPens

— Forever Blueshirts (@4EverBlueshirts) March 20, 2022

NHL Rumors Buzz

Could the Minnesota Wild land Marc-Andre Fleury? That and more here.

The New York Rangers trade buzz is about to become a roar with the NHL Trade Deadline two days away.

Tonight, the team faces off against the Lightning in Tampa before a quick turnaround to Carolina to take on the first place Hurricanes. Regardless of what happens in these next two games, the Rangers could have a different look come Monday when the deadline expires at 3 PM ET.

Rickard Rakell and Mark Giordano top the list

Forever Blueshirts learned on March 4 that the Rangers shifted their priorities to Anaheim Ducks forward Rickard Rakell after realizing the Vancouver Canucks were not serious about trading J.T. Miller.

Rakell, 28, has a cap hit is $3.789 million which the Rangers can take on in full not needing any salary retention.

Prior to this season, Rakell was averaging .73 points per game over the last three years and would bolster a lot of team’s top six. This year, the Swede who is friendly with Mika Zibanejad has 16 goals and 28 points in 51 games. He’s being held out of the Ducks lineup in anticipation of a trade.

According to TFP, the Rangers along with the Penguins, Lightning, Maple Leafs, and Bruins are linked to the winger.

The Rangers are also looking to bolster the defense and Seattle Kraken captain Mark Giordano may be the perfect upgrade over Patrik Nemeth.

Here’s the rub, Forever Blueshirts was told on March 16 that Giordano wants to play in his hometown of Toronto. He has a modified no-trade clause but reportedly told GM Ron Francis he would not get in the way of him making the best deal for Seattle.

In all likelihood he should land with the Maple Leafs, who have LTIR cap space to use with Jake Muzzin out with a concussion. Unless, Chris Drury gives up a first-round pick which seems unlikely.

Giordano, 38, has 23 points in 55 games and is also being held out of the lineup until a trade is made.

Other Rangers trade buzz

Fall back options for the Rangers at forward are believed to be Phil Kessel in Arizona and Andrew Copp in Winnipeg, although the latter has been battling injuries. Blue Jackets forward Max Domi also remains an interesting option.

On defense, should they fail to land Girodano there’s Calvin de Haan in Chicago and Colin Miller in Buffalo.

Here’s what others are saying:

Arthur Staple of The Athlethic (subscription required): The Rangers have prioritized Rakell and Giordano. Alexandar Georgiev was almost traded to the Arizona Coyotes for a low-level goalie prospect before Igor Shesterkin’s injury in January. Montreal’s Artturi Lehkonen is available but at a high cost.

Larry Brooks of the New York Post: States Rakell is the top target (if the price fits what Drury is willing to spend for a rental). He also believes that Giordano is the desired left defenseman the team wants.

Shake up for Chicago Blackhawks

“Now all of a sudden you realize no one on our team is safe and we could all be going in different directions in the near future,” said stunned Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews after Brandon Hagel’s trade. Read more about the situation in Chicago here.

New York Rangers GM Chris Drury has thus far been very frugal with the NHL Trade Deadline just 3 days away. Anyone who thought this might be a buyer’s market has been rudely reminded what the high costs of rentals can be.

The Colorado Avalanche acquired Josh Manson (w/50% salary retained) from the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for defense prospect Drew Helleson and a 2023 second round draft pick. That looked like a steal compared to what the Florida Panthers did.

Montreal moved rental defenseman Ben Chiarot at 50% salary retention for forward Tyler Smilanic, a 1st-round pick in 2023 and a 4th-round pick in 2022.

That wasn’t all.

The Calgary Flames gave up 3 draft picks to acquire bottom six rental center Calle Jarnkrok from Seattle. A 2nd-round pick in 2022, a 3rd-round pick in 2023 NHL, and a 7th-round pick 2024 is a lot, even with the Kraken retaining 50% of his cap hit.

Rangers wisely not overpaying

Chris Drury has been in the trade market for months now, but hasn’t done anything rash. The team’s 16 point cushion for a playoff spot has something to do with it, but they’re at risk of falling to a wild card if they don’t string some wins together soon.

New York was interested in both Chiarot and Jarnkrok, two players that would have bolstered the lineup for a stretch run and postseason action. However, after seeing what prices were paid to get them off the market early I commend the first-year GM for saying no.

Plus, there are still plenty of options on the table for a more reasonable price. Anaheim’s Rickard Rakell is out there, and so is Seattle’s Mark Giordano. If Drury can stay patient, he might be able to get them both without giving up a first round pick or a top prospect.

Playing it that way also comes with the inherent risk that the Rangers could walk away fairly empty-handed come Monday when the trade deadline passes.

Sellers getting their price and more

The Rangers were believed in on Chicago Blackhawks young cost-controlled forward Brandon Hagel. That was until the Tampa Bay Lightning swooped in and gave up a boatload to get him.

Tampa Bay dealt prospect forwards Taylor Raddysh and Boris Katchouk as well as conditional first-round selections in the 2023 and 2024. Yes, they got back two fourth-round picks in 2022 and 2024, but that was a lot for a player with promise.

Hagel, 23, has 37 points in 55 games but it was his 2 years remaining at $1.5M AAV that Tampa paid a premium for since they are perpetually cap-strapped.

The Rangers, who will start dealing with cap issues next season certainly saw Hagel as a fit. Yet, at that price, I don’t blame Drury one bit for backing away.

Rangers still in the rental market

Elliotte Friedman noted in his latest podcast that the Rangers are still shopping the rental market. He mentioned that they still would like a left defenseman and that they made a pitch for Alexander Radulov from the Dallas Stars.

From everything I can gather, they really would like to land Rakell at a good price. Another forward fallback option is Phil Kessel with the Arizona Coyotes.

Mark Giordano wants to play in Toronto, but if the Rangers give a better offer he likely won’t stand in the way of Seattle improving themselves. Should that fail to happen there is always Calvin de Haan in Chicago and Colin Miller in Buffalo.

Now, what if all Chris Drury comes away with is Frank Vatrano? I think many will be disappointed even though the speedy forward only cost the Blueshirts a fourth-round pick.

In fairness, we need to see what Rakell and Giordano go for before judging. I also think we need to take it a step further and wait until the offseason to fully grade Drury’s first trade deadline.

If he retains his assets and pulls off a big deal for Winnipeg’s Mark Scheifele at the draft, I think fans would be very happy.

NHL Rumors

Hampus Lindholm is likely on the move after contract talks break down. Plus is Claude Giroux heading to Florida? Read more here.

The clock is ticking for Chris Drury and the New York Rangers to make moves to bolster the roster. As the March 21, NHL Trade Deadline is just 4 days away some Rangers targets have started to come off the board.

Montreal received a boatload from the Florida Panthers for Ben Chiarot. The rental defenseman brought in 4 pieces that included a prospect, and two draft picks which included a first round selection in 2022. I don’t blame Drury for running away from this like he was trying to escape a bear in the woods.

The Seattle Kraken netted three draft picks for bottom six rental center Calle Jarnkrok. A 2nd-round pick in 2022, a 3rd-round pick in 2023 NHL, and a 7th-round pick 2024 from the Flames was quite the haul. Another good avoid by Drury.

Note that both teams retained 50% salary which likely garnered the extra late picks.

New York Rangers trade buzz

It has been a long time since the New York Rangers were in the buyers game at the NHL Trade Deadline. I think many fans have forgotten just how expensive it can be to play the rental game at this time of year.

The Rangers made a shrewd move by acquiring Frank Vatrano from the Panthers. Florida needed to clear some cap space to land Chiarot, otherwise it would’ve cost more than the 4th round pick Drury gave up.

However, as nice a little player as Vatrano is the Rangers need to get real scoring help on the right wing and it’s very likely going to cost them a first round pick.

New York has prioritized Ducks forward Rickard Rakell as that top 9 forward to address their lack of depth at right wing. GM Pat Verbeek is seeking a first round pick and if the Rangers want him, they will have to give it up (and maybe more).

Before you throw your phone or laptop across the room, I suggest you look at what Chiarot and Jarnkrok just landed.

Bottom line, if Drury does not get right wing that can score at this deadline, it will be a huge negative for the rookie GM.

Alex Radulov a possible trade target

Elliotte Friedman is reporting that the Rangers have shown interest in Dallas Stars rugged power-forward Alexander Radulov.

Radulov, 35, will be a UFA this summer and makes $6.25M against the cap. A hit the Rangers can take in full with no issue. This season has been a real struggle for the big man with just 3 goals and 18 points in 52 games.

I can’t stress enough how this makes little sense to me. Plus the Stars are pushing for a playoff spot and have already said that John Klingberg and Brayden Holtby are off the table.

Friedman also notes that the Rangers are in the market for a left handed defenseman. We noted last night they are in on Seattle’s Mark Giordano but the Toronto native wants to play for the Maple Leafs.

Two other option could be Colin Miller in Buffalo or Calvin de Haan in Chicago.

The clock is ticking on the Rangers and things are expected to pick up this weekend, well in advance of the Monday deadline. What will Chris Drury do? The GM is expected to address the media today or tomorrow regarding the trade deadline.

NHL Rumors

Mark Giordano wants to play for the Toronto Maple Leafs, plus where will Blackhawks forward Dominik Kubalik land? Read more.

The NHL Trade Market is heating up and the New York Rangers are reportedly in on trying to acquire Mark Giordano from the Seattle Kraken. Two other teams also in the mix are the Toronto Maple Leafs and Carolina Hurricanes.

Florida was believed involved but just unloaded their first round pick and more to acquire Ben Chiarot from the Montreal Canadiens.

Continue to hear Leafs & Rangers & Canes the front runners for Giordano.

We’ll see….

— Ryan Leslie (@ryanlesliemedia) March 17, 2022

Rangers in on Mark Giordano; Rickard Rakell worth a first round pick

Seattle Kraken captain is being held out of the lineup in anticipation of a trade. Giordano also has a no-move clause and will have a say in where he goes.

The New York Rangers interest in Giordano dates back to the offseason, but Forever Blueshirts has learned that the veteran defenseman’s destination of choice would be the Maple Leafs.

Giordano, 38, is a Toronto native and will be a pending UFA this summer. He’s registered 23 points in 55 games this season.

As for Rickard Rakell, Pat Verbeek is seeking a first round pick for the Ducks. If the Rangers want him, they will have to give it up.

Calle Jarnkrok was just traded from Seattle to Calgary for a 2nd-round pick in 2022, a 3rd-rd pick in 2023 and a 7th rd-pick in 2024. Seattle also retained 50% of his salary but that’s quite the haul for a bottom six forward.

Stay tuned as things are really getting going now.

Tomas Hertl stays in San Jose

Tomas Hertl just signed an 8 year extension with the Sharks and is officially off the board. Read more.

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.

The NHL Trade Deadline is just two weeks away and as expected the New York Rangers are in the thick of rumors.

General Manager Chris Drury is looking bolster his lineup for the playoffs and there’s a lot of indication that he’ll be very busy. New York may not be landing some of the bigger rentals like Claude Giroux, but they make several deals in the coming weeks.

Here’s a breakdown of trade targets categorized into three tiers.

New York Rangers: Top Trade Targets

Rickard Rakell, 28, is a right wing that is currently playing on the Ducks third line due to the emergence of Troy Terry. The pending UFA forward has 15 goals and 27 points in 47 games and has become the Rangers top trade target. His current cap hit is $3.8 million and would really help the Rangers scoring issues.

Ben Chiarot, 30, is pending UFA that has 16 points in 51 games and could play top four minutes on the left side for any playoff team. It is believed that asking price by the Habs for the rental defenseman starts with a first round pick and another prospect. Chris Drury is going to make a run a serious at him per a source. Will Jeff Gorton help his former assistant?

Phil Kessel, 34, is a pending UFA and considered a top rental. He is still productive with 34 points in 55 games for the Coyotes. The Rangers are believed to not be interested, but I was told they are certainly keeping tabs on the situation.

Max Domi, 27, is a pending UFA this summer with a cap hit of $5.3 million. The versatile forward can play center but has been used by Columbus primarily as a left wing. This season, he has 26 points in 46 games. This is another player that Drury is keeping tabs on, but will John Davidson help the man who took his job?

Calle Jarnkrok, 30, is having a solid season with the Kraken and can play any forward position. He’s currently playing first line center, which should tell you all you need to know about the Kraken’s lowly position in the standing. He would be a great third line center for the playoffs. Jarnkrok has 23 points in 45 games.

Mark Giordano, 38, has 23 points in 51 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.

On the radar, but unlikely

J.T. Miller, 28, has one more year left on his deal worth $5.25M before becoming a UFA. He’s also been extremely productive with 63 points in 55 games for Vancouver this season. The asking price is is high which indicates he is not going anywhere. If the price drops, the Rangers will reengage.

Reilly Smith, 30, is in the final year of his contract with a $5 million cap hit. He’s a perfect rental and has played for Gerard Gallant in the past. The forward has 37 points in 54 games this season but the Golden Knights will be using LTIR to keep him. Unless Mark Stone comes back before the deadline, Smith is staying put.

Artturi Lehkonen, 26, is scheduled to be a restricted free agent with arbitration rights. He has 25 points in 53 games this season. The former second round pick (55th overall) makes $2.3M on his current deal and could be a could fit beyond this season for the Rangers. He’s been playing well under new coach Marty St. Louis and is likely off the table now.

Hampus Lindholm, 28, is making $5.2 million against the cap which is not an issue for the Rangers this season. The big left-handed defenseman (6-4, 216) has 20 points in 55 games this season averaging top pair minutes at 22:50. Anaheim is talking extension with Lindholm, so he’s likely off the table.

Tomas Hertl, 28, is in the final year of a deal that has a $5.625M cap hit. This season, he’s notched 42 points in 55 contests. If he’s available the Rangers are likely to go hard for him but the latest reports have the Sharks working hard to extend him.

Back-up Trade Targets

Mattias Janmark, 31, is one of several Vegas players that will be a UFA. While the Rangers would love Reilly Smith, the swap out of Mark Stone for Jack Eichel on LTIR will keep him there. Vegas may still need to clear cap space and Janmark makes sense to move. He’s registered 17 points in 44 games this season playing a third line role.

Nick Paul, 26, is a pending UFA making $1.35 million. This season, he’s scored 17 points in 53 games with the Sens. He’s been moved to the second line center spot and would be a nice cheap add for the Rangers as a third line winger/center. Paul played for Gallant this summer at the World Championships.

Ryan Carpenter, 31, is a pending UFA making $1 million. This season, he’s registered 9 points in 52 games with Chicago. He is a bottom six center that wins 52.4 of his draws and racked up 97 hits. Acquiring this physical forward would be an upgrade over Greg McKegg and solidify the 4th line.

Vlad Namestnikov, 29, will be a UFA at the end of the year coming off a deal that pays $2 million. In 54 games, he’s put home 13 goals and 23 points. He’s been a versatile player for the Wings this season playing a middle-six forward role. Namestnikov is also familiar with New York having played for the Rangers for three seasons from 2017/18 to 2019/20 (35 points in 99 games).

We will update this list next Monday.

NHL Trade Bait Tracker

The latest Trade Bait Tracker has been updated and now contains 35 names. Check out who is the top target for teams with just two weeks left before the NHL Trade Deadline. Read more.

This gives GM Chris Drury ample time to make a move and address any holes he needs to fill for a run at the Cup. However, all things being equal, if the team is healthy it would be wise to do it with rentals instead of going for broke in their first year of contention.

New York Rangers needs

After 47 games, the New York Rangers are one of the top teams in the League. Their record of 30-13-4 for 64 points is ranked 5th overall. Per MoneyPuck, they have a 96.1% chance of securing one of the 8 playoffs spots in the East.

Mind you, they’ve done this with the two biggest holes in the lineup nagging at them all season.

The Rangers were behind the proverbial 8-ball when they traded Pavel Buchnevich to free up future cap space. It is still a debatable move, but since it was inevitable, arguing now is a moot point. The issue at right wing was also compounded with the loss of Sammy Blais, who was part of the return package, going down for the season with a torn ACL.

On defense, the third pair has been a revolving door of blue-liners. Patrik Nemeth has been the most used on the left side but has struggled this season. His partners have been rookie Nils Lundkvist, journeyman Jarred Tinordi, and Libor Hajek.

For the most part, almost all those combinations have struggled in the d-zone and given up too many chances.

What Chris Drury needs to do at the deadline is bring in a solid top six forward and a veteran left defenseman to pair with mature rookie Braden Schneider.

New York Rangers Trade Deadline approach

There are a lot of names out there said to be on the trade market. One of the biggest names is Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun.

While he would be a huge upgrade over young K’Andre Miller today, it would be difficult to say that will be the case in the near future. Plus the cost to acquire a player like him would make filling other holes extremely difficult.

A package for the 23 year-old defenseman would look something like Filip Chytil, Vitali Kravtsov, Nils Lundkvist, and a first round pick. All of which could be used in other deals to acquire two-three pieces.

The Rangers deadline approach should be to go for it this season. However, do so without gutting all your best trade chips in one fell swoop. Drury and head coach Gerard Gallant need to see how this team does in the playoffs.

Who knows, certain performances under the pressure in post-season action could change some of their opinions on how to best go forward.

What trades should the Rangers make

Over the next few weeks, more teams will fallout of playoff contention and put additional players on the market. The list of contenders should lessen which will make for better buying conditions.

The New York Rangers need to make these two moves to give them the best chance to compete come the playoffs. It will also allow them to keep key pieces to make bigger trades in the summer once the have a clearer picture of their cap situation as both Ryan Strome and Kaapo Kakko need new contracts.

Trade 1: Vitali Kravtsov to Vegas for Reilly Smith

Reilly Smith has probably been on Gerard Gallant’s wish list from the beginning of the season. The 30 year-old is in the final year of his contract with a $5M AAV. He has 32 points in 45 games this season playing RW on the top two lines. Jack Eichel is reportedly about two weeks away from joining the lineup, so Vegas must shed cap space to fit him in. Vitali Kravtsov is more appealing than a first round pick because the Knights are in their Stanley Cup winning window. A young player still on his ELC is an attractive option.

Trade 2: 2022 First Round Pick to Seattle for Mark Giordano

The Rangers need a solid veteran partner for Braden Schneider. The 38 year-old Giordano checks all the boxes, as he can also step up into the top 4 with Jacob Trouba late in games to shutdown the opponent. Seattle is going to build from the draft and will be looking to stockpile first round picks. Drury’s window to win has just opened, so waiting for prospects to develop when he still has a whole pipeline full makes no sense. Giordano has 18 points in 40 games.

The big swing

If the Rangers want to take a big swing now, Vancouver Canucks forward J.T. Miller is the biggest they should go.

NY Post’s Larry Brooks actually put forth a reasonable trade offer for Miller.

Offer Lundkvist and Filip Chytil to the Canucks for J.T. Miller, whom the Rangers would have for two playoff runs before he becomes a 2023 free agent. He could anchor what would become an extremely formidable third line the rest of this season or he could take one of the right-wing spots in the top six. And he would represent protection were either Mika Zibanejad or Ryan Strome to go down with an injury.

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Miller, 28, has one more year left on his deal worth $5.25M before becoming a UFA. He’s also been extremely productive with 46 points in 45 games for Vancouver this season.

This move has major ramifications because of Miller’s cap hit. It’s likely that due to Kakko’s current season (14 points in 37 games), he won’t be breaking the bank when his ELC expires in July. There is a threat of an offer-sheet but Miller provides protection should the Rangers opt not match.

In the end, should Drury just make the two suggested moves above the Rangers will be primed and ready to take a run at the Stanley Cup. They will also leave themselves plenty of options in the summer. Should Drury feel the need to go harder, J.T. Miller should be that extra piece.

Post Trade Deadline Lineup

For some added fun, here’s what the Rangers playoff lineup could look like if they executed all three moves.

Kreider – Zibanejad – Kakko
Panarin – Strome – Miller
Lafrenière – Goodrow – Smith
Hunt – Rooney – Reaves

Lindgren – Fox
Miller – Trouba
Giordano – Schneider

Shesterkin
Georgiev

If the Rangers don’t get J.T. Miller, slot Reilly on the second line. Then add Chytil in the middle of the third and Goodrow to the wing.

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The noise around the New York Rangers is getting louder with each passing week. As they continue to win games and maintain their lofty position atop the Metro Division standings, you hear them linked to players on the trade market.

Dating back to when Sammy Blais was lost for the season due to a torn ACL in November, top NHL Insiders have been discussing the Blueshirts. From forwards to defensemen, GM Chris Drury is keeping his options open to improve his team.

Rangers to be aggressive with trades

Over the last two months, the Blueshirts have been mentioned on TSN’s Insider Trading, Sportsnet’s 32 Thoughts, and The Daily Faceoff numerous times.

“Chris Drury, the general manager for the New York Rangers, is looking for a middle-six forward, which isn’t a term we use often in hockey,” Darren Dreger said before Thanksgiving. “That can be a third-line player or someone who can punch into the top six.”

He followed that up before the Holiday Break with how Drury has continued to look for months on finding a possible solution but to no avail. Teams are still working out if they are playoff contenders, but as the top dogs keep winning, they realize their playoff chances are slim.

Elliotte Friedman and Jeff Marek discussed the Rangers on a recent podcast and pointed them out to be one of the more aggressive teams in the trade market.

“New York is in (the playoffs) and Chris Drury keeps quiet, but I could see them taking a surprise swing,” Friedman said.

One of those players that they could be taking that swing at is defenseman Jakob Chychrun.

Rangers big trade target: Jakob Chychrun

Chychrun, 23, has just 8 points in 29 games with the Yotes’ this season and was dealing with an injury. Last year was a breakout for him with 41 points in 56 games. The left-handed rearguard has three years left on a cap friendly deal of $4.6 million.

“The Coyotes are looking for a package that includes a young player, a prospect, and a first round pick,” Marek said on 32 Thoughts. “And they do have that package from one team in the NHL. Essentially, two former first round players, and a first round draft pick.”

Marek reported that L.A. Anaheim, Boston, Columbus, and Florida are in on Chychrun.

“The Rangers are in on it as well,” Marek added. “They have offered a package which includes Vitali Kravtsov.”

While many wonder just who has the offer on the table that Marek is referring to, it should be noted that the L.A. Kings had a large contingent at the Garden watching the Rangers and Coyotes game.

If the Blueshirts were to land him, and depending on whom they trade, it would likely take them out of the rental market for a blue-liner. Giving up a first round pick will also make it tough to land a rental forward.

Most insiders believe Chychrun will be traded well before the deadline, so keep tabs on this one.

Rangers forward trade targets

New York’s most glaring hole is on the top six at right wing. Now with both Kaapo Kakko and Filip Chytil day-to-day, it’s only getting worse.

According to some insiders, Chris Drury may be looking at the non-rental trade market to bring in a top scorer.

“One of the teams that has really been all over J.T. Miller to bring him back is the New York Rangers,” Frank Servalli said on Canucks Central. “Are there younger pieces on the Rangers’ roster that they’d be willing to part with rather than just draft picks? And how important would it be for them to be in a spot where they have that extra year of J.T. Miller and not have to sweat (what his next contract) looks like.”

Miller, 28, has one more year left on his deal worth $5.25M before becoming a UFA. He’s also been extremely productive with 39 points in 39 games for Vancouver this season.

One thing is clear and has been pointed out to me, the acquisition of Miller would make it harder to retain Ryan Strome. It should also be noted that Artemi Panarin will not be very happy if his center leaves via free-agency.

Another forward the Rangers are reportedly in on is Boston Bruins winger Jake DeBrusk, per Marek.

The 25 year-old has 13 points in 33 games this season. According to several reports the Bruins are looking for a top 4 defenseman in return. A fairly steep price for the struggling winger.

While the interest in a rugged forward like DeBrusk makes sense with what Chris Drury is building in NY, he is another left-handed shot that plays the LW. The Rangers are already struggling to find ice time for #1 overall pick Alexis Lafrenière with Chris Kreider and Panarin cemented as the top two wingers on the left side.

Can DeBrusk play RW? He will also be an RFA next summer and currently makes $3.6M against the cap. The Rangers will have salary cap concerns starting next season, so this still seems like a tough fit.

Rangers will be buyers at the NHL Trade Deadline

If all the options above fail, the New York Rangers will have plenty of choices come the NHL Trade Deadline on March 21 in the form of rentals. That would be a player on an expiring contract who is most likely to walk in free agency after the playoffs.

On the top of Chris Drury’s list is San Jose Sharks center Tomas Hertl. He could automatically slot as a top six winger. Or even give the team more depth down the middle on the third line. Regardless, he’s a perfect fit for a playoff run.
 
“He has almost a 100 per cent no-trade clause,” Pierre LeBrun recently reported. “Only three teams are on his “yes” list. He has lots of control and one team to keep an eye on is the New York Rangers, who I think have him on their list.”

Hertl is 28 years-old and in the final year of a deal that has a $5.625M cap hit. Last season, he recorded 43 points in 50 games. This season, he’s keeping a similar scoring pace with 37 points in 42 contests.

Another option could be Vegas’ Reilly Smith.

Vegas may need to clear out salary in order to fit Jack Eichel under the cap when he comes off LTIR. That may leave Smith, who is in the final year of his contract with a $5 million cap hit on the outs.

Smith, 30, has 29 points in 41 games this season.

On defense, Mark Giordano would be the top rental defenseman that Drury could land for this team. He’s a battle-tested veteran that could easily replace Patrik Nemeth on the third pair, and play clutch minutes late in games with Jacob Trouba.

Giordano, 38, has 14 points in 34 games.

In the end, all the buzz in the rumor mill points to an aggressive Chris Drury on the trade market. His Rangers are one of the top teams in the NHL and people are starting to wonder if they are a legit Cup contender.

Drury looks primed to take some big swings. He will do so by unloading his wealth of young players/prospects. The problem with taking a giant hack is if you miss, you usually miss big too.