Breaking: NHL team admits they’ve given up hope, will trade off veteran players!

The word was out of the street for the last few days now. Many NHL insiders expected the New York Rangers to move some key players ahead of the trade deadline, possibly foregoing a eighth consecutive playoff appearance, to plan for the future. 

The name of veteran forward Rick Nash had been heard in trade chatter, of course, because he is set to become a free agent, and Rangers could benefit from a few prospects or drafts in return. But then, speculation hinted that captain Ryan McDonagh and top forward Mats Zuccarello could be on the move. 

Even worse, some experts believe Rangers management could even convince star goalie Henrik Lundqvist to be traded and the team would start the blue print all over. 

However, fans weren't in a panic - yet. They were just rumblings, but then on Thursday, it all came a little too real. The Rangers have openly admitted to have given up on the current seasons, confirming that they will look to trade veteran players ahead of the Feb. 26 trade deadline. 

In a shocking letter delivered to the team’s fanbase on social media, general manager Jeff Gorton has stated that they want to inform the fans about the future, which has now become the top priority. 

"As we approach the trade deadline later this month and into the summer, we will be focused on adding young, competitive players that combine speed, skill and character," you can read in the full letter, here below: 

"This may mean we lose some familiar faces, guys we all care about & respect. While this is part of the game it’s never easy. Our promise to you is that our plans will be guided by our singular commitment: ensuring we're building the foundation for our next Stanley Cup contender."

Gorton and Glen Sather thank the fans for their support, but let's just see first how well it sits with the fanbase...