Rangers look to trade for big-ticket rental ahead of deadline

The New York Rangers have worked hard even since they announced to their fanbase that they were focusing on a rebuild.

They fast forwarded - thanks to the mega signing of star sniper Artemi Panarin, and now find themselves in a great position to contend, not only in the postseason but also as buyers at the trade deadline.

In a recent mailbag segment, The Athletic’s Arthur Staple was asked if general manager Chris Drury would pursue a big-ticket rental, and it looks like the Rangers are shopping for a player that could boost their roster for a long playoff run.
Staple kicks off with San Jose Sharks’ Tomas Hertl as a trade target, though it still remains to be seen if the West Coast team will choose to let him go.

That won’t stop the Rangers from shopping on the trade market, especially since they have plenty of cap space to make a move.

As Lyle Richardson points out on the Hockey News website, ever since they lost Sammy Blais to a season-ending knee injury in November, the Rangers are looking to add on the wing, though the reporter also believes Drury could look to add an experienced defenseman capable of playing second-pairing minutes.

For a boost up front, Reilly Smith could end up on the trade block when the Vegas Golden Knights will need to clear cap space for Jack Eichel’s return. However, maths are always getting done with Max Pacioretty recently sidelined with what appears to be a long-term wrist injury. There is also the possibility of veteran Phil Kessel, who wants out of Arizona, as the Coyotes have been trying to find a trade partner for his services. Richardson and Staple also suggest Dallas Stars’ Joe Pavelski though the sense is that he wants to remain in Texas and the team is also hoping to keep him.

On the back end, Mark Giordano could become the top defenseman available leading up to the trade deadline, however, you have to wonder if the Seattle Kraken will look to trade its captain in its first season in the league.

The Rangers could look north to Montreal as Canadiens’ Ben Chiarot’s name is buzzing in trade chatter. It remains to be seen if the Blue Shirts would be willing to part with their first-round pick to acquire him as that is the rumoured asking price at the moment.

Busy times ahead in NYC…