The New York Rangers are gearing up for a retool as they find themselves at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings following the Olympic break. With Artemi Panarin already moved to the Los Angeles Kings, the upcoming NHL trade deadline presents both opportunities and challenges for GM Chris Drury. Navigating this period successfully could set the stage for a promising future, but it requires careful maneuvering.
The Rangers received a third-round pick and prospect Liam Greentree in exchange for Panarin. Ideally, they hoped for a return similar to a Brock Nelson package, which would have included a first-round pick and a top prospect.
However, Panarin's no-movement clause limited their options, as he was unwilling to join the Seattle Kraken. Despite this setback, Drury has the chance to make impactful moves before the trade deadline.
To orchestrate a successful retool, Drury needs to consider trading some key players. While the team has already parted with Panarin, the term "retool" suggests they aren't looking to completely rebuild, meaning core players like Adam Fox and Igor Shesterkin are likely to stay.
One potential trade candidate is Olympic gold medalist Vincent Trocheck. With three years remaining on his contract at $5.625 million, his production at center is valuable, and he has a 12-team no-trade list, offering more flexibility than some teammates. Moving Trocheck could be the first step, but the dream scenario involves additional trades.
If Drury can find a way to move players like JT Miller, Mika Zibanejad, and William Borgen, it would mark a significant start to the retooling process. These players have contracts that could hinder free agency improvements, and while trading them presents challenges due to trade protection clauses, their departure could benefit the team's future.
The Rangers have previously communicated their intent to make significant trades, and they've followed through before by moving players like Kevin Hayes and Ryan McDonagh. With no marquee free agents expected this year, a more extensive roster shake-up seems imminent.
However, Drury must be cautious not to trade young talents like Will Cuylle, Gabe Perreault, or Noah Laba, as they represent the future of the franchise. Alexis Lafreniere, though, presents a different dilemma.
At 24, he's yet to meet expectations as a former first-overall pick, despite being under a seven-year contract with a $7.45 million AAV. With 32 points in 57 games, his performance hasn't justified his draft status or contract, making him a potential trade candidate.
Trading Lafreniere could bring valuable assets for the future, and a change of scenery might benefit both the player and the team. The decision to move him is complex, but it could be a pivotal step in ushering in a new era for the Rangers. The question remains: should your team take a chance on Lafreniere?