Monster trade hanging by a thread in New York

The New York Rangers have been quietly exploring the market for a top-9 forward, with Vancouver Canucks’ Kiefer Sherwood emerging as a primary target, according to Vincent Mercogliano of The Athletic. But a pair of injuries could throw a wrench in any potential deal.

Goaltender Igor Shesterkin was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday, and defenseman Adam Fox followed him to long-term injured reserve. With key pieces suddenly sidelined, the Rangers’ front office may shift focus from buying to selling, though the team wants to see how the rest of the month unfolds before making any decisions.

Sherwood, currently in the final year of a two-year, $3 million deal, is eligible for unrestricted free agency this July. The Canucks have reportedly been actively shopping him and are eager to see a deal happen sooner rather than later. Sources told Mercogliano that Vancouver is asking a first-round pick and possibly more for the forward, making any trade for Sherwood a potentially costly move for the Rangers.

The situation is delicate. The Rangers have a clear need up front, but the injuries to two of their top stars create a risk factor that could complicate negotiations and even push them to become sellers ahead of the March 6 deadline.

For Sherwood, this could be the perfect opportunity to move to a better contender, but only if the Rangers, or another team, are willing to meet Vancouver’s price. Until then, the trade rumors remain just that: hints and whispers of a blockbuster that may never come, or could happen under the right circumstances.

As the Rangers navigate injuries, trade talks, and roster needs, fans are left wondering whether the team will take a big swing or sit tight, waiting for the dust to settle. But for now, it sure feels like the next move could change the landscape for New York’s playoff push.