The case against the New York Rangers trading for Jack Eichel

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Jan 28, 2021; Buffalo, New York, USA; Buffalo Sabres center Jack Eichel (9) warms up before a game against the New York Rangers at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

The trade deadline has come and gone and for the second year in a row the Rangers opted to remain quiet. Obviously it came as no shock as the conversation continues to be focused on this summer. It’s no secret the Rangers are ‘kicking tires”, “mulling options” and whatever other insider term you want to use, on Jack Eichel. But to be honest, it’s a bad idea.

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.

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.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehcp_lI5CAc

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

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Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

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.

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