As the NHL gears up to resume play post-Olympic break, the New York Rangers find themselves in a pivotal moment with just four games before the 2026 Trade Deadline. General Manager Chris Drury is in the spotlight, having already moved Artemi Panarin, and now faces the task of leveraging trades to accelerate the team's retooling phase. Let's dive into three key players Drury should consider trading by the deadline.
Vincent Trocheck
Vincent Trocheck stands out as a prime candidate for trade, being the top center available on the market. His appeal is clear: any playoff-aspiring team would benefit from his skills, especially since he’s not just a short-term rental.
With three years left on his contract at a reasonable $5.625 million cap hit, Trocheck offers stability for up to four playoff runs. This scenario sets the stage for a potential bidding war, allowing Drury to extract significant value in return.
A successful trade could dramatically shorten the retooling timeline, but failure to secure a strong return could push the Rangers towards a more extensive rebuild.
Sam Carrick
Sam Carrick, a fan favorite since joining the Rangers in the 2024 offseason, brings grit and tenacity to the ice. Originally signed to replace Barclay Goodrow, Carrick has carved out a niche as a fourth-line center and penalty killer.
His physical style and willingness to engage with the league's toughest players make him an attractive option for teams seeking depth at center. While he may not command a blockbuster return, his contract extending into next season enhances his trade value, especially in a market thin on centers.
Braden Schneider
Braden Schneider's name has been circulating in trade rumors, as he hasn't quite met the expectations set for him. With Adam Fox and Will Borgen solidifying the right side of the defense, Schneider's path forward with the Rangers is unclear.
As a 24-year-old right-handed defenseman, he's an asset many teams covet. Given his status as a restricted free agent, the Rangers might prefer to trade him rather than negotiate a new deal.
Drury could potentially secure a return similar to what the team received for K’Andre Miller, which included high draft picks and a promising prospect.
The outcome of these potential trades will significantly impact the Rangers' retooling efforts. While Drury isn’t under pressure to move these players immediately, doing so could maximize their value and align with the team's future plans. With fans already voicing concerns over the Panarin trade return, Drury’s next moves will be crucial in shaping the franchise's trajectory.