As we bask in the glory of the men’s and women’s overtime victories over Canada in the gold medal games, let's turn our attention back to the New York Rangers. The trade market is buzzing, and Vincent Trocheck seems to be the linchpin among forwards.
Yet, another name is emerging in the rumor mill, and it’s hard to ignore: Vlad Gavrikov. The whispers are getting louder, so let's dive into how plausible these rumors are and whether they hold any weight.
Vlad Gavrikov Trade Rumors: A Closer Look
At first glance, the buzz around a Gavrikov trade seems logical. He signed a seven-year deal with the Rangers, taking a pay cut to join the team, likely expecting a more competitive environment.
The hope was for a swift recovery from a disappointing 2024-2025 season. Unfortunately, that turnaround hasn’t materialized, and the outlook for next season isn't promising either.
Gavrikov, who turned 30 in November, secured his last significant contract, choosing New York to chase victories and play alongside his friend Artemi Panarin. With Panarin now traded and the team struggling, it’s understandable if Gavrikov is reconsidering his decision.
Why the Rumors Might Not Hold Up
However, when we step back, these trade rumors start to lose their footing. Gavrikov's long-term commitment, complete with a no-move clause, indicates a genuine desire to be a part of the Rangers. Despite the discount, his choice to play on Broadway was intentional.
Players are well aware of team dynamics. The Rangers had a rough previous season, and the potential for another challenging year was evident, especially with Chris Drury's openness about restructuring the team. No one anticipated this level of struggle, and expectations surrounding Mike Sullivan’s influence and JT Miller’s leadership as captain haven’t been met in Year One.
Gavrikov was among the players Drury and Sullivan consulted before announcing the retool. There’s a reason they sought input from him, along with Mika Zibanejad, Igor Shesterkin, and Adam Fox. It’s clear that he’s integral to their vision for the team’s future, even if a quick turnaround seems unlikely.
For now, it seems Gavrikov will remain with the Rangers for at least another year or two as the situation unfolds. Should the team fail to rebound quickly, the trade chatter may resurface. But at this moment, these rumors don’t quite add up.