The New York Rangers and Seattle Kraken have quietly built one of the more intriguing inter-team relationships in the NHL-one that may be heating up again as trade chatter starts to swirl. After nearly linking up on a deal that would’ve sent Artemi Panarin to Seattle-a move that would’ve netted the Rangers a stronger return than they ultimately got elsewhere-the two teams might be circling back for another potential swing.
This time, the name at the center of it all is Shane Wright.
According to reporting from James Mirtle, there’s legitimate buzz around the idea of the Rangers and Kraken working out a deal that could send Wright to New York. Now, the first thought many had was a straight-up swap: Wright for Alexis Lafrenière.
On paper, it’s a clean one-for-one involving two young players still trying to find their NHL footing. But that’s exactly why it’s unlikely.
Seattle’s front office is reportedly looking for a proven game-changer, and while Lafrenière has shown flashes, he hasn’t quite reached that tier yet.
Enter Vincent Trocheck.
Trocheck, a veteran center with a well-rounded game and a knack for producing in high-leverage moments, makes a lot of sense for a Kraken team trying to solidify itself as a legitimate playoff contender. They’ve been in the market for a high-end offensive presence-hence their previous interest in Panarin-and while Trocheck isn’t quite at that elite level, he brings a consistent scoring touch and a competitive edge that Seattle could use down the stretch.
Of course, a Wright-for-Trocheck deal wouldn’t be a simple one-for-one either. Trocheck is an established top-six forward with playoff experience and leadership qualities, while Wright is still a developing talent with upside but limited NHL impact so far. If a deal does happen, Wright would likely be part of a larger package heading to New York, with Seattle getting more immediate help in return.
So why would the Rangers be interested in Wright?
For starters, the 22-year-old still carries the pedigree of a top prospect. He’s known for his hockey IQ, two-way potential, and ability to read the game at a high level.
The issue in Seattle has been opportunity-he’s averaging just over 13 minutes of ice time per night, often buried in the lineup behind more established forwards. A move to New York could provide the kind of fresh start that unlocks his offensive game.
The Rangers, now in a transitional phase and leaning into a youth movement, could offer Wright a real shot at top-six minutes. And under head coach Mike Sullivan, who’s known for getting the most out of young talent, Wright might finally get the developmental runway he needs.
There’s also the potential long-term upside. If Wright can find his footing in New York, the Rangers could suddenly have a dynamic young duo in Wright and Lafrenière-two former top picks with complementary skill sets. That’s the kind of foundation that could energize a fan base and reshape the team’s outlook for years to come.
Sure, losing Trocheck would sting. He’s been a steady presence down the middle and a key contributor in big moments. But if the return includes a high-upside talent like Wright-and perhaps additional assets-it might be a move worth making for a Rangers team looking to reset and reload.
And for Seattle, adding a player like Trocheck could be the missing piece that helps them push deeper into the postseason. It’s the kind of trade that could work for both sides-one team looking to win now, the other building for what’s next.
No deal is done yet, but the framework is there. And if these two teams do strike a deal, don’t be surprised-it’s a partnership that’s already shown it’s willing to think big.