Currently a member of the Anaheim Ducks, Strome was being interviewed during warmups prior to their game against the Utah Hockey Club, which was being broadcast on TNT. Working as a TNT studio host was Strome’s former Rangers teammate, the always dapper Lundqvist, who opened things up with a friendly tone of familiarity.

“‘Stromer,’ Hank here. Hope you’re doing good buddy.”

A couple questions and answers followed before another former Rangers player in the studio, Anson Carter, decided to stir things up a bit.

“Hank was just talking about being honest. So, I’m going to be honest now. What was it like having Hank as your teammate?,” Carter asked as laughs could be heard in the background.

Strome’s known more as a playmaker, a set-up guy, throughout his NHL career. But this time, he was happy to be the one set up. And he made sure to finish, with Carter picking up the assist.

“Unreal. It was unreal” Strome began with a smirk. “I’ve got a few good stories. One time, he came to the practice rink and he was in a three-piece suit and I’m wearing track pants. I’m like, ‘Hank, what’s going on here?’ And he had an appearance for like half my salary after practice!”

With one quick anecdote, Strome was able to playfully jab Lundqvist, who was always the best-dressed and highest-paid player with the Rangers.

After the laughs died down in the studio, Strome dished a pretty sweet compliment the Hall of Famer’s way.

“I love his competitiveness. Hank’s the best. We had a couple tough years there and his competitiveness rubbed off on everybody, and left a lasting impact on a lot of guys. You don’t get to play with legends very often. And Hank, it was a great time.”

Ryan Strome told the boys that @HLundqvist wore a 3-piece suit to practice once when they were teammates in NY 😂

Ducks-Utah NEXT on TNT and Max 📺 pic.twitter.com/PTWHzE2fnf

— NHLonTNT (@NHL_On_TNT) March 13, 2025

Related: What’s next for Rangers after re-signing Jonathan Quick, further solidifying roster for next season

Henrik Lundqvist, Ryan Strome were Rangers teammates for ‘couple tough years’

Strome and Lundqvist were Rangers teammates for two seasons, and the 31-year-old is right, those were a “couple tough years.” The Rangers had 78 points and failed to make the playoffs in 2018-19, the same season Strome was acquired in a trade with the Edmonton Oilers. Things did look up some in 2019-20, though the coronavirus pandemic and ensuing bubble play-in tournament knocked things off the rails.

That ended up to be Lundqvist’s final season in the NHL. Strome played two more seasons with the Rangers and helped them reach the Eastern Conference Final in 2022, the same season he scored an NHL career-high 21 goals.

Strome signed with the Ducks and recorded 41 points each of the past two seasons. He has 37 points (10 goals, 27 assists) this season.

And who would know better about everything Trouba adds to the struggling Ducks than Ryan Strome? Trouba’s former teammate in New York told reporters that the ex-Rangers captain will bring a number of benefits to Anaheim, which is 10-12-3 and last in the Pacific Division.

“I know from talking to him; we are going to have a really highly motivated individual with a little bit of a weight off his shoulders that is excited to play and wanted to play in Anaheim,” Strome said. “So, I think those are all positives and things that can jumpstart our group going forward, and I think we are all excited to have him.”

Scenes from the morning skate in MTL 📸📸#FlyTogether pic.twitter.com/lty8FzX9h8

— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) December 9, 2024

Trouba joins a young team in Anaheim, one that’s failed to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs in six consecutive seasons. It’s not all that dissimilar to when he joined the Rangers during their rebuild. His leadership and experience will be invaluable to the Ducks.

“I think anytime you bring a guy in that’s played in the Canadian market (with the Winnipeg Jets), an Original Six market (with the Rangers) and a captain (who’s) been in a lot of playoff series and really good teams, I think it helps,” Strome said. “Not only that too, I think a big body, just to lean on some guys and be hard to play against.”

Trouba certainly brings a physical edge to his game. That will fit nicely with Ducks defenseman and captain Radko Gudas, who plays a similar style.

“Jacob Trouba represents that, the physicality, the identity that you have to play with,” Ducks coach Greg Cronin said, according to Reuters. “He’s a guy that can step up on the forecheck and stop plays and kill plays in the defensive zone. He’s got a heck of a shot and having another right shot back there will help us keep pucks alive in the cycle.”

Related: Rangers trade rumors: Ducks reportedly wanted Cam Fowler included in Jacob Trouba trade

Jacob Trouba excited with change of scenery

Trouba was traded to the Ducks for defenseman Urho Vaakanainen and a forth-round draft pick. The Rangers were able to rid themselves of the veteran’s $8 million salary cap hit, only taking back $1.1 million annually with Vaakanainen.

In 364 games with the Rangers, Trouba scored 31 goals and had 105 assists as an important piece n New York’s defense corps. He was in his third season as captain.

Now arriving

Arrive maintenant#FlyTogether pic.twitter.com/KDi0ziWpjq

— Anaheim Ducks (@AnaheimDucks) December 9, 2024

Getting set for his debut with the Ducks on Monday night against the Montreal Canadiens, Trouba discussed his new team with reporters.

“It was good, nice to get out there with everyone. Got to meet everyone, get to know everyone, get familiar. So excited to be here,” Trouba said Sunday after his first practice with the Ducks. “Everybody’s been really welcoming, obviously some familiar faces. So, it’s been good to kind of jump right in to dinner last night and talk a little bit and get to know everyone.”

Trouba helped the Rangers make the playoffs four times throughout his five-year stint, reaching the Eastern Conference Final twice before losing to the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2022 and eventual Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers in 2024.

He won the Mark Messier Leadership Award for his leadership qualities and charitable activities throughout the 2023-24 season. Trouba helped the Rangers win the Presidents’ Trophy as the regular-season champion last season despite a dip in his overall play.

Let’s take a look.

Related: Top 10 games in Rangers vs. Islanders history

Top 10 players who played for both Rangers, Islanders

#10. Michael Grabner (432 games combined)

Michael Grabner came to the Islanders in October 2010 when they selected him off waivers from the Florida Panthers. Over five seasons, the speedy forward scored 90 goals and 144 points on Long Island before a trade sent him to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2015.

After a brief stint in Canada, Grabner became a free agent in 2016 and, on July 1, joined the Rangers. He had two productive seasons on Broadway, with 52 goals and 71 points in 135 games. Interestingly, he was traded to the New Jersey Devils in February 2018 to complete the New York area NHL trifecta.

Check Out: How to Watch the New York Islanders Without Cable in 2024

#9. Brian Mullen (388 games)

Brian Mullen debuted with the Winnipeg Jets during the 1982-83 season and scored 20 or more goals in four of his first five seasons. At 25 years old, the forward was traded to the Rangers in June 1987, and in four seasons, the New York native scored 100 goals in 307 games, hitting the 20-goal mark three straight seasons.

In May 1991, Mullen was traded to the San Jose Sharks, where he played one season before another trade brought him to the Islanders. He finished his NHL career on Long Island in 1992-93 after he registered 18 goals in 81 games.

#8. Ray Ferraro (381 games)

Ray Ferrero began his 1,258-game NHL career with the Hartford Whalers in 1984. Six seasons later, he was traded to the Islanders, where he spent five productive seasons. The center skated in 316 games and had 238 points with the Islanders, including an NHL career-best 80 points in 1991-92.

As a free agent in the summer of 1995, Ferrero agreed to a deal with the Rangers, switching jerseys for the third time in his career. However, his time with the Blueshirts was limited to just 65 games, where he registered 54 points, before a March 1996 trade sent him to the Los Angeles Kings.

Related: Rangers react to ‘heartbreaking’ Blake Wheeler injury ahead of Stadium Series

#7. John Vanbiesbrouck (493 games)

John Vanbiesbiebrouck was a Vezina Trophy winner as a 22-year-old with the Rangers in 1985-86. “Breezer” was the Rangers goalie for 11 seasons and he compiled a 200-177-47 record.

After leading the Florida Panthers to the 1996 Stanley Cup Final and also playing for the Philadelphia Flyers, Vanbiesbrouck came to the Islanders in June 2000. He made 44 appearances with them, earning a 10-25-5 record with a very young and bad team. Vanbiesbrouck didn’t finish the year on Long Island. The Islanders traded him to the Devils in March 2001, and he retired after the season.

#6. Sergei Nemchinov (559 games)

Sergei Nemchinov was a Rangers 12th-round draft pick who debuted during the 1991-92 season and won the Stanley Cup with them in 1994. Despite being productive during his six seasons wearing the Blueshirt, with 225 points in 418 games, the two-way center was traded to the Vancouver Canucks in March 1997.

"When we won the whole city was celebrating! It was unbelievable!"

Sergei Nemchinov shares memories and photos in his 1994 scrapbook.

On Friday night we celebrate the 25th Anniversary of the #NYR Championship Team presented by @Chase! pic.twitter.com/Tw3p6sFKAw

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) February 5, 2019

Nemchinov returned to the New York area when the Islanders signed him as a free agent in June 1997. In 196 games with his second New York team, he scored 70 points in 196 games before moving on to New Jersey, where he won the Stanley Cup in 2000, becoming the only skater to win a title with the Rangers and Devils.

#5. Ryan Strome (493 games)

Ryan Strome was an Islanders prospect selected as the No. 5 overall pick in the 2011 NHL Draft. During four seasons with the Islanders, the center had 126 points in 258 games before a trade sent him to the Edmonton Oilers in 2017. Over a year later, he was dealt back to New York, this time joining the Rangers in November 2018.

While skating with the Blueshirts, he had his most productive seasons, reaching the 20-goal plateau once and collecting a career-best 59 points in 2019-20. Strome would depart the Rangers in 2022 as a free agent, but 75.3 percent of his career points (321) have come while wearing an Islanders or Rangers uniform.

#4. Patrick Flatley (780 games)

Patrick Flatley played his entire NHL career with the Islanders and Rangers, spending 13 seasons on Long Island and 68 games on Broadway. Although the forward just missed the dynasty years, making his debut in 1983-84, he ended up being Islanders captain from 1991 to 1996.

Flaetley’s 328 assists rank eighth in Islanders history, and he is 14th with them in points (488). Even though his time with the Rangers wasn’t as memorable, with just 22 points in 66 games, Flatley will always be a member of a select group of players who dressed for both franchises.

#3. Don Maloney (744 games)

Don Maloney is another player who spent his entire career on the East Coast, joining the Rangers as a second-round draft pick in 1978. After 11 seasons in the Big Apple, where he scored 502 points in 653 games and helped the Rangers to the 1979 Stanley Cup Final, the forward was traded to the Whalers in December 1988.

The four-time 20-goal scorer only skated in Connecticut for 21 games before returning to the Empire State as a free agent in 1989, opting to sign with the Islanders. Over the final two seasons of his NHL career, he skated in 91 games with 48 points. Maloney went on to become Islanders general manager and was the assistant GM for the Rangers.

#2. Greg Gilbert (501 games)

Greg Gilbert began his NHL career with the Islanders in 1981, right in the middle of their dynasty, capturing two Stanley Cup titles in his first two seasons. After scoring 231 points in 425 games, Gilbert was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks, where he played five seasons before becoming a free agent in 1993.

Little did he know that when he agreed to a contract with the Blueshirts, he would become the only skater in NHL history to win a title with the Islanders and Rangers, helping end a 54-year championship drought on Broadway in 1994. In just one season with the Rangers, he collected 15 points in 76 games.

#1. Pat LaFontaine (597 games)

Pat LaFontaine played his entire Hall of Fame career in one state, never having to change his driver’s license. As another rookie who missed out on the Islanders’ dynasty, he debuted in 1983-84. The center was famous for ending the “Easter Epic” on April 18, 1987, with a Game 7 four-OT goal, sending the Islanders to the second round that season.

In one of the most significant transactions in franchise history, LaFontaine, a one-time 50-goal scorer and six-time 30-goal scorer, was traded to the Buffalo Sabres in October 1991. During the 1992-93 season, he collected an NHL career-best 148 points and almost won the scoring title. However, after that year, injuries, including concussions, derailed his career.

From 1993 to 1997, he played in only 127 games, which led to his trade to the Rangers in September 1997. The Hockey Hall of Famer scored 62 points in 67 games with the Rangers in 1997-98. Even though he left Long Island over 30 years ago, he remains the Islanders eighth-leading scorer with 566 points.

While many Rangers were enjoying a big night offensively, Igor Shesterkin was being left out to dry thanks to missed assignments and poor back checking.

It’s something that Gerard Gallant will most assuredly address at tomorrow’s next practice.

Rangers give Strome a video tribute

Ryan Strome was warmly welcomed back by the Rangers and the Garden Faithful after spending four years on Broadway. As the video tribute ended, Strome tapped his heart and gave the crowd a thumbs up.

welcome back Stromer! pic.twitter.com/7iITURnbZk

— Rangers on MSG (@RangersMSGN) October 17, 2022

It was a little strange,” Ryan Lindgren said during the intermission. “Stromer’s been one of my favorite teammates– such an incredible guy. Everybody in our locker room loves him and wish him nothing but the best.”

Recap: Rangers 6 vs Ducks 4

1st Period

The two teams were feeling each other out in the early going with the Rangers eventually gaining the edge in play. Sammy Blais got the Ducks flinching with the puck in their own zone as he used his body enthusiastically on defenders.

It was great see him skating well and being physical in his first regular season game since tearing his ACL last year.

welcome back Sammy Blais 💪 pic.twitter.com/bZOCenXad0

— Rangers on MSG (@RangersMSGN) October 17, 2022

New York would get the first power play in the game when Mason McTavish put the puck over the glass for a delay of game minor. On a night that welcomed back former Rangers’ center Ryan Strome, it was his replacement that scored on the man advantage at the 7:34 mark.

Vincent Trocheck, wearing Strome’s old #16 and playing in his spot on the power play tapped in an easy goal off a feed from Mika Zibanejad. Artemi Panarin recorded the other assist and now has at least a point in each game this season.

IT’S A POWER PLAY GOAL. pic.twitter.com/HC6HX3NI3p

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) October 17, 2022

Soon after, the second line of Trocheck, Panarin, and Alexis Lafrenière had a furious shift and drew a penalty on Derek Grant for hooking. This time it was Trocheck returning the favor to feed Zibanejad for a power play goal past a helpless John Gibson for a 2-0 lead at 13:10. Panarin once again notched the secondary assist.

“We came out with a hot start but there’s things we need to work on defensively,” Trocheck said. “I’m starting to fit in on the power play and understanding what they do. I’m getting more and more comfortable.”

MIKA ZIBANEJAD! IT'S A POWER PLAY GOAL! pic.twitter.com/ypyVuRMrrD

— Rangers on MSG (@RangersMSGN) October 17, 2022

I would say Igor Shesterkin was a little sleepy when Frank Vatrano snapped a shot over his glove but that wouldn’t be fair. The goal came with 4:12 remaining and hinted at some defensive zone issues that occurred too often in the contest.

2nd Period

The Rangers came out overly aggressive with a 2-1 lead and made another sloppy play with the puck. Less than a minute in, Adam Fox tried a risky cross-ice pass near the blue line that the Ducks turned into a 2 on 1 that he was able to breakup.

Jacob Trouba then took a Troy Terry slap shot off his face shield and was immediately sent to the locker room to be checked. On the very next shift, Trevor Zegras tied the game streaking down the left side to beat Shesterkin with a nifty move.

All of this happened in just the first 1:34 of the middle frame.

New York settled things down as Trouba returned to the game showing no ill effects from the shot to the face. Kaapo Kakko would restore the Rangers lead by knocking down a Zibanejad shot that went off a Ducks skate and by Gibson at 9:54. Fox notched the other assist.

KAAPO KAKKO! 3-2 #NYR pic.twitter.com/nr1TP4LmfO

— Rangers on MSG (@RangersMSGN) October 18, 2022

Gibson was heroic on the Rangers third power play, making two huge stops on Zibanejad and Trocheck to kill the penalty. However, 12 seconds after the man advantage expired, the second power play unit (AKA: The Kid Line) scored to make it 4-2. Alexis Lafrenière put home his first of the season off a Filip Chytil cross-crease feed. Zac Jones registered his first point of the season with an assist on the play.

THE KID LINE! Laf gets his 1st of the year! pic.twitter.com/LPk3j27wUW

— Rangers on MSG (@RangersMSGN) October 18, 2022

The Rangers barrage didn’t stop as a quick pass from Fox found Panarin skating down the middle. He would then whip it over Gibson’s outstretched glove. Ryan Lindgren notched the secondary assist with 34 seconds remaining.

BREAD WITH A RIP! 5-2 #NYR pic.twitter.com/hMnD16wacM

— Rangers on MSG (@RangersMSGN) October 18, 2022

It was certainly a shaky start, but the Rangers completely owned the Ducks outshooting them 18-6 in second.

3rd Period

Anthony Stolarz mercifully replaced Gibson to start the third period and was welcomed by a Trocheck breakaway less than a minute in. The Rangers center shot it just wide to the relief of the Ducks backup.

Anaheim would cut the lead when Max Comtois’ one-timer beat Shesterkin 5:33 in. Former Blueshirts defenseman, Kevin Shattenkirk made the feed for the goal as the Rangers were out of position to defend.

The Rangers offense did get that goal back on… you guessed it, the power play!

With Vatrano in the box for interference, the top unit scored quickly off a their trademark Zibanejad one-timer from the left circle. It was his second of the game and fourth point of the night. Panarin made the cross-ice pass to get his fourth point as well. Fox picked up his third assist of the contest.

“There’s an understanding we need to work hard and do the little things right,” Zibanejad noted. “There’s room for improvement but so far so good.”

That is a 🎯. pic.twitter.com/GcSNOzNT0x

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) October 18, 2022

Anaheim would once again keep it close with a Grant tap in goal due to an extremely poor effort in the defensive zone that was capped by a poor back check by Lafrenière.

In the end, the Rangers high octane offense propelled them to another win despite some shoddy defensive play in their own zone.

“I thought we got lackadaisical with the two goals in the third period,” Gallant explained. “That’s frustrating. We have to finish games better than that. We don’t need to give up those goals with careless plays in the neutral zone.”

Notable Rangers

• Igor Shesterkin stopped 18 of 22 shots
• Artemi Panarin set a record with 10 points in NYR first 4 games
• Mika Zibanejad notched 4 points (2G-2A)
• Adam Fox picked up 3 assists
• Alexis Lafrenière recorded his first goal of the season
• Zac Jones notched his first point of the season

Tomorrow (Tuesday, October 18): Practice at 12 PM (MSG Training Center)

Next Game: Thursday, October 20 vs. San Jose (7:00 PM ET – TV: MSG)

*Schedule subject to change

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Late in the second period, while on an aggressive forecheck in the Jets zone, Carpenter tried to get around the defender to steal the puck. In the attempt, both players went down and Carpenter fell face first on the Jets player’s skate causing a deep laceration. He left for the locker-room bleeding badly and didn’t return for the third period.

“He’s doing okay– I haven’t heard anything,” Gerard Gallant updated afterwards. “Day-to-day.”

Ryan Carpenter shows off scary cut

Yesterday on his Instagram Story, Carpenter posted a photo of the aftermath with a message for fans.

“I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has reached out,” Carpenter said. “I’m very grateful it wasn’t worse. I am fine and all stitched up.”

The 31 year-old also proceeded to thank the Rangers medical staff and the doctors in Winnipeg for their help.

Carpenter added he was grateful for divine intervention. As you can tell by the posted photos it was just inches away from his neck.

Carpenter signed a one-year contract this summer with the Blueshirts for $750,000. In three games this season, he has one assist and -1 rating.

Last season, he scored 12 points in 67 games split between the Chicago Blackhawks (59) and Calgary Flames (8). For his career, he’s amassed 70 points in 311 games with San Jose, Vegas, Chicago, Calgary and New York.

Ryan Strome on coming back

On Monday, the New York Rangers will get back to work against the Anaheim Ducks and welcome back two familiar faces.

Ryan Strome and Frank Vatrano will both be back at Madison Square Garden but in opposing uniforms. Vatrano was a deadline acquisition last season and played a total of 42 games with the Rangers with 20 of them being in the magical run to the Eastern Conference Final. Salary cap issues prevented the two sides on coming to terms before Vatrano signed with Anaheim.

As far as Ryan Strome is concerned, he spent four seasons on Broadway and finally realized his potential as a former first round pick (5th overall in 2011). In four season with the Rangers, he registered 195 points in 263 games.

The 29 year-old pivot spoke with the NY Post’s Ethan Sears this weekend in anticipation of the game.

“I think for me it was just where we were to where we got to,” Strome said. “I was there a little bit after The Letter went out, they started tearing down a little bit. Saw so much change, but I think the core group of us just kinda being there and kinda pulling ourselves out of the basement a little bit was a great feeling.

“We put a lot of work into, not only on the ice but off the ice and making it a good environment and a good culture and a good dressing room dynamic. And I think to see that come to fruition last year, we feel a little bit short, but to see the hard work pay off a little bit and kinda take that next step was a really good feeling. That’s probably the thing I’ll remember most.”

NY Post

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Kaapo Kakko and Alexis Lafrenière have been under the spotlight as young New York Rangers for the last few seasons. The second overall pick in 2019 and first overall pick in 2020 respectively, have always had high expectations. Last season was regarded as potentially pivotal for both, and while they each showed improvement, this season presents them with the opportunity to get to the next level.

With training camp scheduled to open on September 21, that chance they’ve both been waiting for is on the horizon.

Offseason elevates Kaapo Kakko and Alexis Lafrenière

The Rangers acquired Frank Vatrano and Andrew Copp in trade deadline deals last season. Both were valuable assets for the Rangers for the remaining regular season and into the playoffs. However, the Rangers chose not to re-sign them in the offseason.

Vatrano and Copp spent time on the first and second lines mostly in place of Lafrenière and Kaako. Now that they won’t be occupying those spots, the kids have the chance to prove that they belong in the top six on a nightly basis.

While they did play in these spots at various times last year, they’re at the point where these need to be their permanent places on the roster. Continuity of linemates and amount of ice time per night will only help them flourish.

Of the Rangers’ offseason additions, the only one guaranteed a top six spot is Vincent Trocheck. However, that does not affect Kakko and Lafrenière since Trocheck is a center. He was brought in to take Ryan Strome’s place on the second line.

Kakko and Lafrenière making progress

With Kakko going into his fourth NHL season and Lafrenière going into his third, it is time for them start producing.

They’re skill players who have been adjusting to the pace and play of the NHL for the past few seasons. Both began to look significantly more comfortable last year. Kakko only played 43 games missing much of the remaining time due to injury. However, he had 18 points through those 43 games, putting him on pace to surpass his career high of 23 had he not been out. This career high was recorded in his rookie season through 66 games.

Lafrenière recorded 31 points in 79 games last season moving up and down the lineup. If he is able to secure a spot in the top six and play with the same linemates consistently, it will help him produce more. Chemistry does matter for scoring.

Lafrenière also demonstrated his offensive skill and exceptional vision on ice last season in the playoffs with a number of heads-up plays. These are the exact reasons he was drafted first overall. This is the year for him to translate these skills into more points.

The Rangers need more contributions from these young players

The hockey world was surprised by the Rangers’ deep playoff run last year, and now they need to prove it was not a fluke. The Rangers have been out of rebuild mode and ready to compete, but they weren’t necessarily expected to contend for the Cup.

Last year, they had players like Vatrano, Copp, and Strome for their playoff run. Now that they’re gone, others will have to step up.

This is the year for Kakko and Lafrenière. The pressure is on for the Rangers, and they need their top picks to thrive.

Note: All stats come from hockeyreference.com

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The New York Rangers had a magical run last season as they emerged from their rebuilding years into a contender. Ryan Strome, who was a key member of the group, discussed that run in detail in a new interview.

“It was unreal and the best part about it was no one really expected it from us,” Strome said. “I don’t think we were favored in anyone of our series so it was pretty special. Coming together with a group of guys– that sounds cheesy, but it was honestly the best thing in the world.”

Appearing on Missin Curfew, which is hosted by former NHL players Shane O’Brien and Scottie Upshall, Strome also talks about free agency and his decision to sign a five-year deal with the Anaheim Ducks.

Ryan Strome talks New York Rangers magical season

The New York Rangers finished the regular season with 110 points on the strength of 52 wins. It was certainly an incredible ride that ended with a trip to the Eastern Conference Final.

“The regular season everyone does their own thing but in the playoffs the team puts everyone together and it’s the best,” Strome said. “It was really fun for us and we proved a lot of people wrong.”

One thing was clear for Strome and many of the Rangers that have been here through the rebuild since 2018, the team was turning the corner. It really hit home at the trade deadline when Frank Vatrano, Andrew Copp, Tyler Motte, and Justin Braun were added.

“The previous years in New York had just been a fire sale,” Strome admitted. “Last year, was a different feel. You get a little confidence and then you add some nice names and you look up your lineup and realize you’re pretty steady.

“From my standpoint, when I got there four years ago the team was in the shits. It was a total rebuild and to get to where we got last year was a great feeling for the guys in the room. We made it happen and that was the coolest part.”

Unfortunately, Strome suffered a lower body injury late in the season that became progressively worse though the playoffs. The team fell to the Tampa Bay Lightning in 6 games with Strome playing in terrible pain and missing time.

“It was tough between all the freezing and painkillers it’s nuts,” he said. “You’re pushing your body to limit. I remembering waking up one morning calling my wife and dad– I’m almost in tears not knowing how I’m going to play today.”

On Jacob Trouba’s leadership

There was a lot of talk prior to the season about naming a captain. Multiple reports suggested that Jacob Trouba was going to get the C sewn on his sweater until a late change of plans. Gerard Gallant and Chris Drury opted to go with six alternate captains, but it didn’t stop Trouba from leading the group.

“Jacob Trouba did a great job,” Strome revealed. “We got shellacked like 7-2 (Game 4) and we had a big team meeting. He got all the boys together and he really made everyone believe that you have to take it one at a time. You win that first one and we knew we’re going to win Game 5. If we bring it back to Pittsburgh you never know what can happen.

“Igor found his game a little bit and it wasn’t that he wasn’t playing that good. It just felt that whole series every call was against us, and every disallowed goal was against us. We just had to fight through that adversity and we found a way. That [Game 6] and Game 7 was unreal and we felt we were destined to win.”

Strome acknowledged that Trouba was a big presence on the ice and a key to the team’s success. However, he made it a point to emphasize the hard-hitting defenseman’s role off of it.

“He threw big hits but he answered the bell every single time. I can’t say enough about him as a player and a person,” Strome added. “I think he did an unreal job with the leadership group. A lot things behind the scenes that aren’t easy to do in New York. You got families living in Connecticut, guys living in the City, it’s not easy to put that stuff together.”

Strome on free agency

Strome, 29, had a solid season with the Rangers picking up 21 goals and 54 points in 74 regular-season games. In the postseason, he added another 9 points in 19 contests.

That helped him secure a 5 year deal with the Anaheim Ducks for $5 million per season. Strome admitted the Rangers were his first choice but similar to Andrew Copp’s post free agency comments, he sensed it wasn’t going to happen. The Rangers opted to let all their UFA’s walk and signed Vincent Trocheck as their new second line center.

“I wanted to stay for sure,” Strome said. “There was interest to stay but at the end of the year I got the vibe we were going different ways. My only regret is that I didn’t get to see the whole thing through.”

While detailing why he ultimately chose the Ducks, Strome revealed that there may have been an option to stay with the Rangers on a short-term contract.

“For me, I was looking to sign for as long as possible. I’ve got two young ones and for my wife it’s been tough living in rental houses and you never really know what’s next,” he explained. “There was an option to roll the dice and wait another year or two and see what happens but I wanted to be in a spot for the foreseeable future.”

In the end, Strome chose what was best for his family and no one can fault him for that.

“We came up a bit short but everyone was proud of our improvement,” he said. “Best of luck to those guys moving forward.”

NHL Trade Bait

Check out the latest NHL Trade Bait Tracker for the 2021-22 season. Now that Matthew Tkachuk has been traded, J.T. Miller is back atop the list. Find out the top 12 players likely to be traded between now and the trade deadline. Read more.

The New York Rangers and Ryan Strome said their goodbyes to each other on Thursday. Far too often the very human aspect of the game is what gets lost in the process of doing business in sports.

That was on full display as Strome, an emotional leader, said his goodbye after signing with the Anaheim Ducks for 5 years and $5 million per season.

“Loved and embraced every minute of playing at MSG and being a New York Ranger,” Ryan Strome said. “My family and I are going to miss everyone from the training/equipment staff, amazing people behind the scenes, and most importantly a great group of guys in the room. A big thank you for everything!!!

“Really humbled and excited for the next chapter with the Anaheim Ducks. According to my kids I’m Daddy Duck now. SoCal here we come, can’t wait… LFG!”

New York Rangers and Ryan Strome say goodbye

On November 16, 2018 the New York Rangers made a trade that at the time no one really thought too much of by sending Ryan Spooner to the Edmonton Oilers for Ryan Strome.

How wrong everyone was about that.

In fairness, the former #5 pick overall in the 2011 NHL Draft by the New York Islanders was considered a bust. With just 162 points in 358 games between the Isles and Oilers, the Rangers were taking a gamble on the then 25 year-old.

It paid off big for the Rangers as he recored 195 points in 263 regular-season games through four seasons.

His role during the rebuild should not be downplayed or overlooked either. More important than any of his on-ice accomplishments was what he did off the ice in the locker room.

The Rangers’ alternate captain helped the young players grow and mature. Alexis Lafreniere took the time to acknowledge Strome leaving with a heart emoji on Instagram. He wasn’t alone with K’Andre Miller calling him a “legend.

The sentiments were felt by his Rangers teammates with one of his fellow alternate captains Jacob Trouba posting a farewell note of his own.

“A great teammate, leader, and friend,” Trouba wrote. “The tough part of pro sports. You got a good one Anaheim Ducks.”

One player that is surely upset with the news that Strome is heading elsewhere is linemate Artemi Panarin. The two had great on-ice chemistry but also forged a lifelong friendship.

“I think we work together pretty good and there’s good energy in the locker room, off ice too,” Panarin said of Strome in December. “Good friends. We respect each other.”

Ryan Strome was a great Ranger

In the end, Strome spent a short time on Broadway and made a real impact. Fans love to joke about him missing empty nets, but he loved being here and wore his heart on the sleeve of his Rangers jersey every day.

“Obviously my heart’s here,” he said fighting back tears after the season ended. “The last four years I’ve tried to pour everything into this thing on and off the ice. I can’t predict the future but all I know is I love these guys and this team is destined for great things. It’s a little emotional. Honestly, it’s a great group of guys and I hope there’s more.”

When he got here, the team was in shambles embarking on a rebuild. Strome now heads off for Anaheim after helping turn the team around into one of the NHL’s best.

Despite this being the end of the road for Strome, he was a great Ranger. Not because of his stats but for how much he cared and loved being in New York. His leadership and mentoring in the locker room is the legacy he leaves behind for one of the younger Blueshirts to pick up and carry on.

For setting the tone + leading by example. For always making us smile. For embodying #NoQuitInNY: Thanks for everything, Stromer. pic.twitter.com/GPlFf3iAS2

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) July 14, 2022

NHL News and Rumors

• NHL Rumors: When will J.T. Miller be traded?
• Johnny Gaudreau stuns everyone, signs with Blue Jackets
• Updated list of top UFA signings

That was made very clear when Andrew Copp revealed on ESPN that the Rangers never even made him an offer before he decided to sign with his hometown Red Wings.

After adding backup goalie Jaroslav Halak, and needing to protect against an offer sheet for Kaapo Kakko, the Blueshirts will likely stand pat until Kakko signs.

Per CapFriendly, they have $4.7 million in space remaining. Depending on what’s left over they may add some depth players.

Will the New York Rangers sign Tyler Motte?

GM Chris Drury held a press conference yesterday to discuss the team’s moves. When asked about Tyler Motte, he answered that signing him would be too tight.

Motte, 27, registered 15 points in 58 games and added 2 playoff goals this past season playing a strong checking role for the Rangers. He is the last of their key unrestricted free agents that has yet to sign elsewhere.

Here’s a where the others went:

• Ryan Strome signed with Anaheim Ducks (5 years at $5M AAV)
• Andrew Copp signed with Detroit Red Wings (5 years at $5.625M AAV)
• Frank Vatrano signed with Anaheim Ducks (3 years at $3.65M AAV)
• Justin Braun signed with Philadelphia Flyers (1 year at $1.85M AAV)
• Kevin Rooney signed with Calgary Flames (2 years at $1.3M AAV)

The Rangers will certainly be scrutinized for opting to give Trocheck 7 years, versus signing Strome or Copp. Trocheck is clearly the better center, who can play both sides of the puck extremely well and can win draws. So there’s no arguing which is the better middle man.

Analysis will focus on short-term versus longterm impact of the contract. The Rangers already find themselves up against the cap with the expectation that things will get much tighter next summer when Alexis Lafreniere, K’Andre Miller, and Filip Chytil are up for new deals.

We will have more on the moves later today.

NHL News

• Johnny Gaudreau stuns everyone, signs with Blue Jackets
• Updated list of top UFA signings
• Golden Knights forced to trade Max Pacioretty

What started as a report that the Rangers and Winnipeg Jets had a discussion about pending RFA center Pierre-Luc Dubois has devolved into sheer madness. There’s been no less than a half dozen names associated with the Blueshirts over the last few days, some are very much true and others sheer speculation or musings.

This article will attempt to analyze some of those names and put them into categories. We will start with the ridiculous to simply get them out of the way. Then we will venture into the possible and realistic options.

New York Rangers center options: The Ridiculous

Nazem Kadri

Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff recently discussed pending UFA center Nazem Kadri on a recent podcast. He’s one of the hottest pending UFAs after scoring 87 points in 71 games last season.

“I think– I should say I know that one team that has Nazem Kadri high up on their list is the New York Rangers,” Seravalli said on the DFO Rundown. “Ryan Strome, take that money out and pay Nazem Kadri.”

Here’s the problem, Strome’s money is already out of the equation. The Rangers have just about $10 million in cap space remaining with holes to fill, including re-signing Kaapo Kakko to a bridge deal in the neighborhood of $2M per season.

The speculated contract on Kadri’s next deal, who is 31, is 7 years at $8M plus. How does that math work? Sure, you could make it feasible for this season if you dump players like Patrik Nemeth and Ryan Reaves, but it doesn’t work beyond that.

New York has to extend both Alexis Lafrenière, K’Andre Miller, and Filip Chytil (unless he’s traded) next summer.

While the Rangers were certainly rumored to be interested last season, it just doesn’t fit now. That’s why this lands firmly in the ridiculous category.

Evgeni Malkin

Another name attached to the New York Rangers thanks to pure speculation on the part of Elliotte Friedman is Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

“I would wonder if the Rangers would try something (with Malkin on a short-term contract),” Friedman said on the That’s Hockey Talk Podcast.

Malkin, 35, finished the year with 42 points in 41 games. He’s wrapping up a deal worth $9.5M AAV against the cap and seems like an attractive option.

However, there was a report during the playoffs that Pittsburgh offered both Malkin and Kris Letang a 3 year-deal worth $5M AAV which they considered too low.

Do the Rangers really want an injury prone Malkin until he’s 38 years-old at over $5M AAV? That’s why this seems ridiculous to even entertain.

New York Rangers center options: The Possible

J.T. Miller

When the offseason started, the Canucks were listening to offers on Miller and Brock Boeser. Well, Boeser has just signed an extension for three years making Miller very likely to be traded.

Miller, 29, was the Canucks leading scorer with 99 points in 80 games this past season. He has one year left on his current deal which comes at a very affordable $5.25M cap hit. Speculation has his next deal expected to be in the $8.5M AAV range for at least 5 years.

Initially I believed the cost to acquire Miller would be too high, but after the Kings acquired Kevin Fiala for a first round pick and a prospect, Elliotte Friedman feels that Vancouver can get a little bit more.

If that’s the case, maybe Nils Lundkvist, and next year’s first-round pick plus a prospect gets it done. That’s much better than the believed ask of Filip Chytil, Braden Schneider, and a first they asked for at the deadline.

Andrew Copp

Although recent reporting has Copp heading to the market, there’s always a chance the Rangers can find a way to sign him. I will admit it seems slim right now.

The 27 year-old was the team’s top trade deadline acquisition. He posted 53 points in 72 games with 18 of those coming with the Blueshirts. In the playoffs, Copp added 6 goals and 14 points in 20 contests. He’s wrapping up a 1-year deal signed with the Winnipeg Jets for $3.6M. According to Jeff Marek on HNIC, Copp is in line for a new contract in the neighborhood of $5.5M AAV. That now appears to be on the low side.

If the two sides can circle back close to those numbers something could happen quickly.

Pierre-Luc Dubois

When it comes to a longterm player fit, the 24 year-old Dubois is perfect. Of course, in a salary cap world his next contract and more importantly the timing of it doesn’t.

Forget the high cost in trading for him, it’s locking him up for 7 years at around $8M AAV being the problem. The Rangers don’t have that money to give right now. Especially when you consider that Alexis Lafreniere, K’Andre Miller, and Filip Chytil all need new deals next summer as we will continue to mention.

Even if Chytil is part of the package, it’s still precarious to sign Dubois for more than two-years. There’s a gamble Drury can take and that’s to bridge him at around $6M AAV until 2024, that’s when Chris Kreider and Jacob Trouba’s full no-move clauses become modified. They take up $14.5M in cap space combined.

So would you risk trading Kakko, Nils Lundkvist, and your 2023 1st rd pick for a player that may bolt for his hometown Montreal as a UFA in in 2024?

At the end of the day, you don’t win Cups by not taking some risks. I still think this is possible if the Rangers believe they can bridge him for two seasons and sign him longterm in 2024.

New York Rangers center options: The Realistic

Ryan Strome

I simply can’t rule out re-signing Ryan Strome even if he says he’s testing free agency. Especially not after the way he spoke on breakup day.

“Obviously my heart’s here. The last four years I’ve tried to pour everything into this thing on and off the ice,” an emotional Strome said. “I can’t predict the future but all I know is I love these guys and this team is destined for great things. It’s a little emotional. Honestly, it’s a great group of guys and I hope there’s more.”

The 28 year-old center had a solid season with the Rangers picking up 21 goals and 54 points in 74 regular-season games. In the postseason, he added another 9 points in 19 contests playing badly hurt. Strome completed a 2-year deal he signed with the Blueshirts back in 2020 for $4.5M AAV and maybe his heart will bring him with a favorable team deal.

Mark Scheifele

Scheifele, 29, has two years at $6.125M AAV which many teams would jump at including the Rangers. He had a strong season with 70 points in 67 games and is a perfect for this team and its salary cap needs.

While his AAV may be just a tad higher than what Drury is looking for, it’s that two year contract that’s perfect. It coincides with both Chris Kreider’s and Trouba full no-move clauses becoming modified. They represent $14.5M in cap space that could potentially be freed up to give to younger players.

He would also come at a cheaper trade cost than the aforementioned Miller and Dubois. A package of Filip Chytil and a 2023 first-round pick likely gets it done. By trading Chytil’s one-year remaining at $2.3M, it also frees up cap space to re-sign Frank Vatrano. That’s one less RFA to worry about next summer as well.

Despite Elliotte Friedman noting in his recent 32 Thoughts blog that the Jets want to keep Scheifele around, I believe if push came to shove they’d make the trade.