Rangers Look to Shake Up Roster: Some Potential Solutions

 

MON NOV 25TH - NEW YORK: The New York Rangers find themselves at a crossroads after a humiliating 6-2 loss at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers on Saturday. Sitting at 12-6-1 and fourth in the Metropolitan Division, the Rangers boast a solid record, but their recent 6-4 run in their last 10 games has encouraged management to consider making some bold roster adjustments to solidify their playoff goals. 

Trouba and Kreider on the Block 

Among the potential trade pieces are captain Jacob Trouba and longtime Ranger Chris Kreider, both of whom bring significant status and contract complexities to the table. Trouba, who has held the captain's "C" since the 2022-23 season, has been a critical piece of the Rangers' defensive core. This year, the 30-year-old has had 6 six assists, 29 hits and a team leading 56 blocked shots in 19 games, averaging over 20 minutes per night. However, with a defensive goals above replacement rating of minus (-2.3), his impact has been questioned. 

Trouba's 15 team no-trade list adds a layer of difficulty to any potential deal, but the Detroit Red Wings were reportedly interested in him this past offseason. His physical style and leadership could make him a valuable addition to another team seeking defensive stability. 

Kreider, meanwhile, is an iconic figure in Rangers' history. Selected 19th overall in the 2009 NHL Draft, the 33-year-old winger ranks third in franchise history with 313 goals and is on the verge of becoming the team's all-time leader in power-play goals. However, his production this season has been inconsistent, with just nine goals in 19 games and none in his last 6 games. Kreider is currently sidelined with an upper-body injury, further complicating his trade value. 

Core Facing Uncertain Future 

The Rangers' leadership acknowledged before the season that this could be the "last crack" for their core group. With two Eastern Conference Final appearances in the last three seasons, expectations remain very high, but contract pressures loom large. 

The team already locked up Alexis Lafreniere on a seven-year, $7.45 million deal, but key players like Kaapo Kakko, Will Cuylle, and K'Andre Miller are pending restricted free agents, while veterans Ryan Lindgren, Igor Shesterkin and Jonathan Quick are set to become unrestricted free agents at the season's end.      

Options for the Rangers 

If the Rangers opt to make significant moves, here are some potential strategies:  

1. Target Cap Flexibility: Moving high-salary players like Trouba or Kreider could free up cap space to re-sign young talent like Kakko and Miller, while ensuring room for future deals with Shesterkin and Lindgren. Teams with available cap space and a need for leadership, such as Detroit, Winnipeg or Nashville, could be logical trade partners.  
2. Bolster the Top Six: While the Rangers' defense has been a strength, their offensive depth has been inconsistent. Trading for a more reliable top six forward, particularly one with playoff experience could address scoring inconsistencies. Teams like Calgary or St. Louis, who might be looking to retool, could be potential solutions.   
3. Commit to Youth: The Rangers could lean into their younger core by moving on from veteran contracts and giving expanded roles to players like Lafreniere, Kakko and Cuylle. This would mean trusting their development while navigating the growing pains of a younger lineup.   
4. Reinforce the Blue-Line: If Trouba is dealt, the Rangers will need to shore up their defensive depth. Pursuing a cost effective, stay-at-home defenseman could help maintain the team's strong defensive identity while reducing salary commitments.  

Moving Forward

With their .658 points percentage ranking eighth in the NHL, the Rangers remain a competitive team in a crowded and competitive Metropolitan Division. However, the next few months could define their trajectory, as the team balances short-term success with long-term sustainability. General Manager Chris Drury and the Rangers front office have tough decisions ahead, but with a solid foundation and ample talent, the team is well positioned to navigate this pivotal period.