Way too early trade deadline talk about the Rangers RW (PTCS). The New York Rangers have placed Kaapo Kakko, Blake Wheeler, and Jonny Brodzinski on the top line with the Ranger's most dynamic one-two punch in Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad. The trade deadline is 3 months away (March 8th,2024), but the New York Rangers have options if they want to insert a bonafide right flank to compliment 93 and 20. Capital would have to be moved around, as the New York Rangers have approximately $112,185 in the bank. That leaves room for none of the players mentioned below. Chris Drury has put on masterclasses in the last two seasons, although these assets may be unlikely acquisitions, they could be on the radar of the nifty general manager. Jake Guentzel ($6 million AAV, RFA in 2024-2025): Age 29 (LW, RW): He's playing himself out of Pittsburgh. His 14 goals and 32 points in 28 games would make a three-headed dragon of a first line for the Rangers. The advantage, he is a free agent this summer. If the Penguins are not in a playoff spot in three months he could be dealt at the deadline. Pavel Buchnevich ($5.8 million AAV, UFA in 2025-2026): Age 28 (LW, RW) modified-NTC- I get the sense that Chris Drury would not bring back a player he traded in 2021 for little return to make room for Lafreniere or Kakko in the top six. It would be exciting to see a KZB reunion. Bryan Rust ($5.125 million AAV): Age 31 (RW) NMC- He just inked a major contract. If the Penguins decide to rebuild, he could be an option. With a long-term deal in place, it'd be unlikely the Rangers trade for a player who is not a free agent at the season's end. Vladimir Tarasenko ($5 million AAV, RFA in 2024-2025): Age 32 NTC- A Tyler Motte move. Couldn't sign him last summer, why would he not be a great addition for a second go around? He's skating on a team that had playoff hopes but currently sits at 8th in the Atlantic. If there's a way, add his 19 points in 24 games to the top line. Steven Stamkos ($8.5 million AAV, UFA in 2024-2025): Age 33 NMC- The far cry. Public comments [https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/no-change-in-contract-standoff-between-tampa-bay-lightning-steven-stamkos-1.2049296#:%7e:text=Stamkos%20has%2014%20goals%20and,%2Dyear%2C%20%2468%20million%20contract.] about his next contract fuel this prediction. It would fit the same mold as the Patrick Kane addition last year. It's certainly the New York way, to acquire a 33-year-old two-time Stanley Cup champion to lead the team to the cup. See Martin St. Louis in 2014 and Eric Staal in 2016 as examples. Mats Zuccarello ($6 million AAV, UFA in 2026-2027): Age 36, M-NTC, NMC- Is Zuccarello saying no to a chance at playing in New York again? The Wild are currently 7th in the Central Division and fired Dean Evanson at the start of the season as a result of their struggles. If the Rangers give up a roster asset or two and future stock, there may be a chance. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DVDUMnSix-8[/embed]
