Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Some may think the New York Rangers are punting on the season with their recent trade involving Ryan Lindgren and Jimmy Vesey, but that’s not actually the case.
The Rangers still reportedly believe they can push for the playoffs withstanding this deal.
New York acquired center Juuso Parssinen and defenseman Calvin de Haan who are two players the Rangers reportedly believe can help them compete this season.
Both Lindgren and Vesey were set to become unrestricted free agents this summer, which reportedly factored into the team’s decision to move on from the two veterans.
Reilly Smith’s contract will also expire this offseason and if the Rangers follow the same logic, he’s likely the next player to be traded.
The Rangers also acquired a second-round pick and fourth-round pick, with this trade certainly benefiting the team more in the future.
New York retained 50 percent of Lindgren’s salary in a clear push to get more assets in return for Lindgren and Vesey as they both have gone through some struggles over the course of the 2024-25 campaign.
Right now, the Rangers sit four points out of the second wild card in the Eastern Conference with 23 games remaining this season.