Will Nikita Kucherov be the next NHL player to hit 1,000 career points? The Tampa Bay Lightning [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/] are expected to add to their roster before the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline. This is because they are among the teams in the Eastern Conference playoff race. One area that the Lightning could look to improve is their defensive depth. [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/lightning-should-make-big-push-for-canadiens-star] This is especially so when noting that defenseman J.J. Moser will be out long-term [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/tampa-bay-lightning/latest-news/lightnings-jj-moser-expected-to-miss-8-10-weeks-with-lower-body-injury]. When looking at trade candidates around the NHL, the New York Rangers offer a very fascinating option to consider in defender Zac Jones. Jones is a young defenseman who could use a change of scenery, as he has become the odd man out on the Rangers' blueline. According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli [https://www.dailyfaceoff.com/news/islanders-brock-nelson-leads-first-trade-targets-board-of-2025], the Rangers have also given him permission to talk with other teams. Zac Jones [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjExOTU4MDc3MDE5MTM4MDI0/usatsi_25022977.jpg] Zac Jones While Jones has been scratched often as of late by the Rangers, he has still been solid this season. In 26 games, the Richmond, Virginia native has one goal, eight points, and a plus-2 rating. If the Lightning acquired Jones, they would get an offensive defenseman with good upside. In addition, he would provide them with another option for their bottom pairing and could fit in nicely on their second power play. He also has an easily affordable $812,500 cap hit, which adds to his appeal.
