3 New York Rangers Who Could Be Moved at the Trade Deadline
The New York Rangers are currently enjoying a seven-game winning streak and lead the Metropolitan Division, despite facing challenges due to injuries affecting the depth of their lineup. With key players like Filip Chytil and Blake Wheeler sidelined for the season, the Rangers find themselves in need of trades to bolster their roster and address gaps.
While the team is more likely to trade picks and prospects to acquire new players, they may also have to consider moving some existing roster players to facilitate deals. General Manager Chris Drury, who hasn’t had to make such moves in the past, now faces a situation with reduced draft capital and a prospect pool skewed towards top talent, making rental acquisitions less appealing. Here are three potential roster players the Rangers might consider moving before the 2024 Trade Deadline.
Although it may not be the most prudent decision, there have been rumors suggesting the Rangers are open to offers for Kaapo Kakko, the second overall pick in the 2019 draft. Despite a standout season in 2022-23, where he recorded 18 goals and 40 points in 82 games, Kakko has struggled this season, tallying only six goals and 10 points in 34 games, partly due to injury. His diminished offensive output has sparked trade talks, with the Rangers potentially seeking a player with term on their contract in return, rather than a rental. One player linked to the Rangers is Frank Vatrano of the Anaheim Ducks, who is having a strong season and is under contract until 2024-25. While acquiring Vatrano could benefit the Rangers, Drury will only proceed if the deal aligns with the team’s long-term goals.
Despite Kakko’s offensive struggles, he brings valuable qualities to the Rangers, such as underrated puck possession skills, strong play along the boards, and solid defensive abilities. Additionally, his line with Johnny Brodzinski and Will Cuylle has been performing well recently. While Kakko may not have lived up to the lofty expectations set in 2019, he remains a valuable asset capable of contributing to a deep playoff run for the Rangers, although the team may consider compelling offers for him.
Another potential trade candidate for the Rangers is Zac Jones, who has struggled to secure consistent playing time since joining the team during the shortened 2021 COVID-19 season. Despite appearing in a career-high 17 games this season, Jones has primarily filled in during short stints when other players are injured or suspended. With six other defensemen ahead of him in the lineup, Jones is unlikely to see regular playing time with the Rangers. Consequently, the Rangers could explore trading him to a team where he would have a better chance of securing consistent minutes, potentially acquiring assets in return.
