So, now we know part of their plan moving forward. We’ll see how the rest plays out in the coming months, though it feels more and more that Ryan Lindgren’s days with the Rangers. are numbered, likely exiting after the season as an unrestricted free agent.

It’s back to the business of hockey Sunday, though. The Rangers try to extend their season-long 10 game-point streak (7-0-3) and keep the good vibes rolling, when they host the Colorado Avalanche. It feels like Colorado is still reeling a bit after the massive Mikko Rantanen trade Friday, understandably. A quick Rangers start Sunday might be the best course of action against such an opponent.

New York woke up Sunday 11th in the Eastern Conference, three points behind the two wild cards — the Tampa Bay Lightning and Columbus Blue Jackets. They’re also two points behind the Ottawa Senators and one in arrears of the Montreal Canadiens. Pretty much everyone ahead of the Rangers and even right behind them in the East won, or got at least one point, Saturday.

So, time to take care of their own business again in a Sunday matinee at MSG.

New York Rangers news

Here are three things to watch for when the Rangers host the Avalanche, including the importance of getting bodies to the net, just as the Blueshirts did in their 6-1 win against the Philadelphia Flyers.

The Rangers made a minor trade with the Lightning, acquiring forward Lucas Edmonds in exchange for forward Ryder Korczak. Edmonds was assigned to Hartford of the American Hockey League.

Their advanced stats haven’t been pretty, but our Tom Castro writes that the Rangers’ third line, consisting of Chris Kreider, Filip Chytil and Arthur Kaliyev, has plenty of potential to be a major contributor if coach Peter Laviolette keeps it intact.

NHL news

The Avalanche lost their first game after the Rantanen trade, 3-1 to the Boston Bruins. Martin Necas was minus-3 in his Avalanche debut.

Rantanen and Taylor Hall were held without a point in their debuts with the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday, a 3-2 overtime loss to the Islanders.

How about former Rangers defenseman Tony DeAngelo logging 25:07 TOI in his debut after signing with the Islanders on Friday?

The news wasn’t all positive for the Islanders on Saturday. They lost defenseman Ryan Pulock and goalie Marcus Hogberg, each with an upper-body injury, in that home-ice win against the Hurricanes.

Hot on the heels of the Rantanen trade, Elliotte Firedman reported that another star player, Elias Pettersson of the Vancouver Canucks, has drawn serious trade interest from the Buffalo Sabres.

In a big blow to their playoff hopes, the Columbus Blue Jackets will be without injured forward Sean Monahan for an additional 6-8 weeks after it was determined his wrist issue is not healing as quickly as expected.

The New Jersey Devils skated to a 4-3 overtime win against the Canadiens. But it may have been a costly victory. Captain Nico Hischier left the game in the third period with an apparent upper-body injury.

Watch Jack Hughes score the overtime winner for the Devils in Montreal.

The Pittsburgh Penguins lost their game — 4-1 to the Seattle Kraken — and center Evgeni Malkin — who left the game with an apparent lower-body injury.

Shane Pinto scored in the third period to lift the Senators to a 2-1 win against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Quinn Hughes scored twice to lift the Vancouver Canucks past the Washington Capitals 2-1, ending Washington’s six-game win streak.

The Anaheim Ducks defeated the Nashville Predators 5-2, but lost goalie John Gibson to an upper-body injury in the first period.

“The Rangers were already looking for a center,” Friedman said on Hockey Night in Canada. “And now they may have to look for two. Filip Chytil was re-injured [on Friday], and we wish him all the best, but it doesn’t sound great.”

Chytil, 24, has been out since Nov. 2 and has six assists in 10 games this season. He was at an optional morning skate when it was reported that he needed help off the ice. No one saw what caused him to go down, and now there are serious questions about his long-term health.

“Fil suffered a setback,” coach Laviolette said. “He was evaluated this morning and will continue to be evaluated. He’s at his house here in New York.”

Related: Chytil suffers setback

Rangers looking for help at center

One center that’s available is Sean Monahan of the Montreal Canadiens. Friedman spoke at length about the pending UFA, and logically linked the Rangers as a potential suitor with a twist.

“A number of teams are wondering if Monahan is on the Rangers radar,” he continued. “The big challenge is that there isn’t a lot of love lost between those two front offices. So will it be a complicated deal to do between them?”

Forever Blueshirts reported back in September of 2022, with trade rumors regarding disgruntled prospect Vitali Kravtsov, that the presence of former Rangers GM Jeff Gorton in Montreal didn’t make a deal with the Canadiens likely.

Both Gorton and team president John Davidson were dismissed on May 5, 2021 and the organization gave their roles to Drury.

“No, I didn’t know it was going to turn into that, it surprised me,” Gorton told the Cam and Strick Podcast after being fired after the Tom Wilson incident. “Obviously, I lost my job – it probably has to be more than that. I don’t know, but it has to be more than that – it can’t be just one thing.”

As for Monahan, the 29-year-old would be perfect on the Blueshirts’ third line. To date, he’s registered 13 goals and 35 points in 49 games. Furthermore, he can score when it counts. Over his career in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Monahan has 21 points (10 goals, 11 assists) in 30 games, all with the Calgary Flames.

Besides him being a solid two-way center, he also has reasonable cap hit of $1.985 million, which would allow the Rangers to go after other needed pieces like a scoring right wing and shutdown defenseman.

Friedman also speculated on a recent podcast that a first-round pick could be the asking price. Of course, there’s been no indication that’s what the market will pay for Monahan’s services this far out from the Mar. 8th trade deadline.

That’s what Rangers general manager Chris Drury is wrestling with. And knowing Drury’s track record of swinging trades before the deadline, you’d expect he’s actively finding out which centers are available now, even as Chytil recuperates from an upper-body injury back home in Czechia.

New York entered 2023-24 with quality depth at center. But the loss of Chytil 10 games into the season created a domino effect that has taxed their depth.

Peter Laviolette says the Rangers are "hopeful" that Filip Chytil can return this season: pic.twitter.com/gqN0nKpwXx

— Rangers Videos (@SNYRangers) December 30, 2023

Vincent Trocheck replaced Chytil on the second line with Artemi Panarin and Alexis Lafreniere, and that threesome has been one of the most productive lines in the NHL. Mika Zibanejad, of course, centers for Chris Kreider to form a potent 1-2 punch on the top line. Kaapo Kakko, who missed 21 games with a lower-body injury, is now back on that line playing right wing. So, all good in the top six.

From there, though, things are not as good. Nick Bonino, known for his defensive game, has been asked to anchor the third line after Trocheck moved up. Barclay Goodrow and Jonny Brodzinski have spent time as fourth-line pivot. Those three have combined for four goals in 107 games, leaving the Rangers with virtually no production from their bottom-six centers.

And though Chytil has resumed skating, a timetable for his return remains unknown, leaving Rangers general manager Chris Drury in a position to look to add down the middle ahead of the trade deadline.

So, let’s examine what the Rangers’ options are at center.

Related: Rangers’ biggest surprises in 1st half of 2023-24 season

5 centers Rangers could target ahead of 2024 NHL trade deadline

Sean Monahan – Montreal Canadiens

The sixth overall pick by the Calgary Flames in the 2013 NHL Draft, Monahan is healthy and producing at his best rate in years with the Canadiens. He’s scored 11 goals and 27 points through 44 games, and if those rates continue, he’ll have his best offensive season since 2019-20, when he had 22 goals and 48 points with the Flames. 

The 29-year-old could be a perfect fit on New York’s third line, as he has respectable underlying numbers on what’s been a bad Montreal squad. On top of that, he’s been a solid performer in the Stanley Cup Playoffs with 21 points (10 goals, 11 assists) in 30 games, all with Calgary.

A bonus for the Rangers is that Monahan has an affordable $1.985 million salary cap hit and is an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season

Will former Rangers GM Jeff Gorton be willing to help his replacement? We’ll see in a few weeks.

Alexander Wennberg – Seattle Kraken

The Rangers had a front row seat to watch Wennberg up close Tuesday when the Kraken visited The Garden. Will he call New York home come March?

It feels like a very long time ago when Wennberg nearly posted 60 points as a 22-year-old with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2016-17. But since then, he’s become a solid middle-six center.

The on pace for another 35-point season, which is essentially what he’s been for the last half decade. His advanced stats aren’t impressive and he’s not the sexiest name on this list, but he’d likely be available since he’s a UFA at season’s end.

Elias Lindholm – Calgary Flames

The biggest name on this list is likely the one most out of reach for Drury and the Rangers.

The 29-year-old is now two years removed from his only point-per game season, and the numbers this season aren’t great (eight goals, 29 points in 44 games). But he’s a four-time 20-goal scorer who’s been a top-six mainstay for years with the Flames.

Power play goal for Calgary!

Scored by Elias Lindholm with 12:11 remaining in the 2nd period.

Assisted by Nazem Kadri and Yegor Sharangovich.

Anaheim: 0
Calgary: 2#CGYvsANA #FlyTogether #Flames pic.twitter.com/X0lj0X5Lnu

— NHL Goals (@nhl_goal_bot) December 22, 2023

Lindholm’s role in New York wouldn’t be to drive the offense, but rather anchor the bottom-six, and he’s done that very well during his career in becoming one of the better two-way forwards in the game as evidenced by three top-10 Selke finishes.

The bidding war for the impending UFA will be high and likely more than the Rangers want to spend on a third-line center. Plus the Flames are fighting for a playoff spot in the Western Conference and may want to add, not subtract a player with Lindholm’s track record.

Adam Henrique – Anaheim Ducks

The name likely still sends shivers down the backs of Rangers fans, but Henrique is having a strong season in SoCal as he approaches his 34th birthday.

The former New Jersey Devil center, who KO’d the Rangers with an overtime goal in Game 6 of the 2012 Eastern Conference Final, has 11 goals and 24 points in 43 games. The Ducks are bad, in a rebuild and likely to sell off assets come March.

Henrique has the largest cap hit in this group ($5.825 million) but is a free agent at the end of the season. He’s also a consistent 40-point player and contributes on the penalty kill, making him an ideal possibility to fill a void in New York.

Jack Roslovic – Columbus Blue Jackets

Probably the name with the biggest long-term upside, the youngest member of this list is a strong two-way forward even if the offensive numbers haven’t been there this season on another bad Blue Jackets club. The 26-year-old hasn’t scored in eight games since returning from a fractured ankle (against the Rangers on Nov. 12) and has two goals and 10 points in 22 games.

However, the former first-round pick has posted back-to-back 40-point seasons, including a 22-goal campaign in 2021-22.

Roslovic is an unrestricted free agent this summer and making $4 million. Like with Montreal, Drury would have to work with his predecessor John Davidson in Columbus to get a deal done. But with how things have gone for the Blue Jackets this season, it appears everything not bolted down has a price.

The New York Rangers are looking at potential trade targets to fill in their hole at second line center. Various names have been attached from Vancouver’s J.T. Miller to Winnipeg’s Pierre-Luc Dubois and Mark Scheifele.

Recent rumor rumblings appear to have both Jets centers as unavailable and the asking price for Miller still being too high.

Those aren’t the only options out there for a trade and Calgary Flames pivot Sean Monahan has also been linked to the Rangers.

Sean Monahan is an injury risk

Whenever you talk about Monahan, discussions regarding his health are a huge concern.

The 27 year-old’s season once again ended prematurely because of a hip issue. He is currently recovering from surgery but is expected to be back for the start of training camp.

“He’s battled some things,” Flames general manager Brad Treliving said in April. “It’s unfortunate. The good news in here is he’s got a lot of time to get this addressed. He had his other hip, his left hip, done [in May 2021] and it feels great and he’s doing wonderful. This is now sort of the next challenge for him. He’s got a lot of time to get it addressed before next year.”

Monahan, 27, finished last season with just 23 points in 65 games. For his career, he has 462 points in 656 career contests over nine seasons all with the Flames.

The two-way center is in the final year of a deal with a $6.375M hit against the cap. That number in and of itself is likely outside the Rangers price range, not to mention the risk the team would assume regarding his ability to play a full season.

Rangers trade trade scenarios for Sean Monahan

Trading for Sean Monahan is not recommended, especially if you are assuming his full contract. So what is the former sixth overall pick in the 2013 draft worth? What do the Flames want?

Monahan was on the block last season before his injury with reports that Calgary was dangling him for a defenseman. With that info in hand, let’s break it all down with three trade possibilities.

Scenario One: Rangers acquire Sean Monahan at 50% salary retained for Nils Lundkvist

This is not a recommended option, but if GM Chris Drury wants more cap flexibility, it would take a talented prospect for the Flames, to eat $3M of Monahan’s salary.

Scenario Two: Rangers acquire Sean Monahan at 25% salary retained for Matthew Robertson

When it comes to trade scenarios for Monahan this seems most plausible. The Flames really need to create some more cap space and the Rangers would like to keep that 2C slot at under $5.5M AAV. At 25% retention, Monahan would come in at $4.78M for just one season.

Scenario Three: Rangers acquire Sean Monahan with no salary retained and a second round pick for a 2022 6th round pick

As I mentioned before, the Flames need to clear out as much space to sign several players with both Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk about to command max term at $9M AAV easy. If the Flames want to dump Monahan’s salary to the Rangers it’s going to cost them big. Since he only has one-year left on his deal, the Rangers could probably absorb the full hit this year. Chris Dury only has one second round pick in this year’s draft and may have to attach that to Patrik Nemeth to dump his two years remaining at $2.5M.

Why Sean Monahan?

A trade for Monahan presents risks but also some potential big rewards. Back in 2018-19, he scored 82 points in 78 games. He’s potted 30 goals three times in his career as well. All very solid 2C numbers for sure, maybe even 1A when healthy and producing.

I know what some of you are also thinking. Can he win face-offs? The answer is yes. While he’s not a specialist, he has a career average in the dots of 50.5 and can hold his own. Monahan is also very good defensively, and does not take bad penalties.

In the end, the Rangers probably have other options above him, but he’s certainly a center to consider.

NHL News and Rumors

• Teams can shake things up at the NHL Draft with a trade
• NHL Trade Bait Tracker: Top 30 Players to watch
• Lightning trade Ryan McDonagh to Predators
• Five players looking for new teams

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?

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.

Here are the top Rangers trade targets.

Jack Eichel, 24 years-old

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 more. That would give the Sabres two picks in the first half of a deep draft of talented prospects.

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.

Acquiring Eichel will cost the Rangers, and it appears Buffalo is not interested in Ryan Strome. The deal would likely include Filip Chytil and Zac Jones, but the other piece is the question mark. I believe the Rangers are willing to include Vitali Kravtsov but the Sabres are insisting on Kaapo Kakko.

If the Ducks are as all in as many claim, and willing to part with Trevor Zegras it will be a tough decision for Drury. While I don’t think the Rangers will part with Kakko, don’t rule it out. Then again, taking on $10 million in salary for the next 5 seasons is not an easy thing for many teams to do. Including Kakko without Buffalo retaining salary is an overpay.

Evgeny Kuznetsov, 29 years-old

The Capitals are rumored to be willing to move Kuznetsov and his $7.8 million cap hit for the next four years.  “I think we’re always open to trading people if it makes sense for what’s going on,” MacLellan commented during his exit presser.

The offensive talented pivot 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.

As far as what the Caps are looking for, it would not be anything near an Eichel package. In this case, Ryan Strome and Zac Jones probably gets it done. The Rangers get an upgrade at center, and also don’t add too much salary by moving out Strome’s $4.5 million.

Sean Monahan, 26 years-old

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. Back in 2018-19, Monahan scored 82 points in 78 games. He’s potted 30 goals three times in his 8 years in the league as well. All very solid 2C numbers for sure, maybe even 1A.

I know what you are thinking. Can he win face-offs? The answer is yes. While he’s not a specialist, he has a career average in the dots of 50.2 and can hold his own. Monahan is also very good defensively, and does not take bad penalties.

This is another deal where a package of Filip Chytil and Zac Jones may get it done.

Long shot: Steven Stamkos, 31 years-old

The rumor mill is starting to churn regarding the Tampa Bay Lightning. They are way over the cap and its widely known that they need to move some pieces. Maybe some big pieces.

Depending on if they can trade players like Tyler Johnson and Alex Killorn, Tampa may be forced to think bigger. Why? Because Brayden Point will be a RFA after next season and Tampa wants to lock him up to an 8 year deal in the $9 million range and up.

So could we see Steven Stamkos waive his no trade clause? Some believe it could happen. He has 3 more seasons at $8.5 million and would automatically be given the captaincy. This may seem far-fetched to read now, but if Drury misses out on Eichel and Stamkos is available, this is the move he makes.

As far as a trade package, think prospects and draft picks. Cost controlled players like Vitali Kravtsov and Zac Jones fit the bill.

NHL Trade Rumors

Latest trade rumors, including Jack Eichel and Vladimir Tarasenko. Read more.

NY Rangers news: Rick Tocchet to interview for Rangers coaching job

Elliotte Friedman is reporting that Rick Tocchet will be interviewed by the New York Rangers for the vacant head coaching job. Additionally, Frank Seravalli is noting that the Seattle Kraken will speak with him as well.

The 57 year-old former NHL power forward took the reins as head coach of the Coyotes back in 2017. Tocchet amassed a 125-131-34 record with Arizona during his tenure. He is widely considered an up and coming coach who knows how to relate to his players. Many in NHL circles view his record as a feat for getting more with less than any other coach.

Expect more coaches to be spoken to soon.

The Blueshirts’ newly installed president-general manager has previously met with Gerard Gallant, who entered this derby with the shortest odds. It is believed that Drury has been in contact with both John Tortorella and Patrick Roy, though it does not seem that their talks could be construed as job interviews.

NY Post

New York Rangers Chris Kreider up for King Clancy Memorial Trophy

New York Rangers forward Chris Kreider has been chosen by the team for the King Clancy Memorial Trophy. Named after Frank “King” Clancy who served the game for decades as player, referee, coach, and manager. This award goes to the player that best exemplifies leadership qualities on and off the ice for humanitarian contributions in their community.

NY Rangers Rumors: Sean Monahan should be on the New York Rangers shopping list

The New York Rangers are in the market for another top center. One name that should be on their shopping list is Sean Monahan with the Calgary Flames. He hasn’t been officially put on the market, but there is a chance they will at least listen to offers this summer.

NHL Rumors

The L.A. Kings are going for it this summer. Rob Black confirms they will be busy this offseason in the trade market. Is Jack Eichel their primary target? Read more here.

New York Rangers trade shopping list

Jack Eichel has basically been saved in the New York Rangers’ Amazon Cart since last season. However, Chris Drury needs to still be searching for centers and using the All Departments filter while doing so. Another suggestion is to also sort by price from highest to lowest. It won’t take him long to find Flames center, Sean Monahan. Once he reads the reviews, Drury needs to click the Add to Cart and then hit the Save for Later button.

You see, if a trade for Eichel doesn’t pan out or if Aleksaner Barkov remains Out of Stock, he will need to look at other possibilities. Drury should also read the reviews on Evgeny Kuznetsov and delete him from his Saved Items List immediately. I would also not hit the Move to Cart and Buy Now buttons on Evgeni Malkin unless the price drops significantly and there are no other options.

Trade Target Sean Monahan

Here are Sean Monahan’s vital statistics that everyone should know:

• Age – 26
• Pos – C
• H/W – 6’2″, 200 lbs
• Shoots – Left

Now let’s dive into the numbers that count. He 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 a 75 games. Back in 2018-19, Monahan scored 82 points in 78 games. He’s potted 30 goals three times in his 8 years in the league as well. All very solid 2C numbers for sure, maybe even 1A.

I know what you are thinking. Can he win face-offs? The answer is yes. While he’s not a specialist, he has a career average in the dots of 50.2 and can hold his own. Monahan is also very good defensively, and does not take bad penalties. Like I said, read the reviews and make sure to hit Add to Cart.

What would a trade for Sean Monahan look like?

So what would it take to acquire Monahan should he become an available item? That’s a good question and one that isn’t easily answered. What are the Flames in need of? Cap space for one. Heading into next season Calgary has about $14 million to play with and only have 13 players under contract.

Could the Rangers acquire a player like Monahan using cost controlled assets like center/winger Filip Chytil and defenseman Zac Jones? That may not be enough, but it could be a solid starting point. Remember, Calgary has a highly touted prospect in Connor Zary that could debut next season too. They have their own lost cost options coming in, but does it make sense to play Zary on the 4th line?

Right now the main objective of this article is to call attention to whom should be on Chris Drury’s trade shopping list for centers. If Monahan becomes officially available, the ask from GM Brad reliving will be made clearer. The big question I have swirling in my head is if the Rangers could bring in both Eichel and Monahan in the same offseason?

Yes that may sound crazy right now, but is it really? With almost $24 million in cap space the Rangers could be so bold if they choose. Remember, deals for these types of players will also have money out ramifications for the Blueshirts. It is very early in the process, but thinking small never won a Stanley Cup.

NHL Rumors: Where could Patrik Laine land?

Looks like the Blue Jackets are looking to move Laine. Where could he go? Read more here.

The Sabres appear to have a culture issue, a culture of perpetual losing as they enter their tenth straight season without a playoff berth. Players that have left the team talk like they are being looked after by Ben Stiller in Happy Gilmore. Has every player, including Taylor Hall get better after leaving Buffalo? Yes, so that will bode well for the Blueshirts trading for Eichel right? Well no.

Everyone on the Sabres is like the Mista Mista lady from Happy Gilmore https://t.co/X9A8atYQWp

— Jt Marrero (@J_Marrero17) April 10, 2021

Looks Like The Price is Wrong

Packages for Eichel and his $10 million cap charge (Did I not mention that yet?) have hit the always correct, never overdramatic Twitter dot com. Fans (aka: the real GMs) estimate 2 firsts, a roster player (Chytil, Buch or Strome) and a Kravtsov, or Kravstov if you’re making a jersey, and maybe a d-prospect. Here’s the thing, the Rangers don’t have the need for a Jack Eichel. Do they need another star center? Absolutely and Eichel is absolutely a star and a scorer. But he doesn’t fill the need the team is truly in need of. Especially when trading for Jacky boy will have me looking at Jeff Gorton like Gamora in the soul stone.

Rangers from old flame to “new Flames”

The whole idea of this article was originally to say they should get Sean Monahan from the Calgary Flames. He’s a bit older (2 years) and is on a great contract for another two seasons; $6.375 million cap hit. Monahan is a solid number two center that has often been seen as potential Selke winner. He may not be lighting the lamp like Eichel but he is extremely responsible with the puck. Before this season his giveaways to takeaways were a massive strength to his game. Takeaways obviously then allow whomever his line mates are able to in turn transition into offense. Some would call Monahan a less talented Jesper Fast; if you will. Most importantly is the fact that he brings something the team needs desperately, the ability to win face-offs. It’s impressive how the Rangers are so bad at the dot (worst in the league) and still manage to be productive. I know it’s an old stat that doesn’t matter anymore, but come playoffs, and yes the Rangers will be in the playoffs next year, it can truly make the difference between a win and a loss.

Rangers Asset Management

Before I wrap this up with my trade package to Calgary, the always intelligent Steven Voogel, pointed out that he would love to see Elias Lindholm over Monahan. I wouldn’t hate that either and I believe while Lindholm would cost a bit more he would still be right around the cost for 23 from CGY.

If I’m a betting man (I’m not because I don’t know sports ball) I would think an offer of a 2022 1st a 2021 3rd and Matthew Robertson gets you in the door for Monahan. I think after it’s all said and done for Calgary to sign off:

CGY Receives: 2022 1st, 2021 3rd (BUF) + Matthew Robertson + Julian Gauthier

NYR Receives: Sean Monahan

Too steep? Not enough? Whose to say…. well you can what do you think of this deal?

To me all that matter is that NYR keeps guys like Krav and Chytil because they truly have a spot for the future success on 34st in Manhattan.

NHL Rumors

Three-way trades with cap facilitators here to stay in new NHL economy. Read More.