On the New York Rangers …
Arthur Staple: (responding to Brooks article) There are several Rangers players that would be perfect fits for the Islanders, but it’s hard to imagine the Rangers helping the Islanders for a playoff push even if the price is right.
Larry Brooks: (responding to Staple’s tweet) Hard to see the teams pulling off a big deal. The teams have never traded NHL players.
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Have been told that regardless of where they sit in the standing, the Rangers will be looking to get younger – players already in the NHL or ones that are NHL ready. They’ll also be looking for draft picks. You may not get a franchise guy late in the first round, but you can get a good player.
The Dallas Stars, St. Louis Blues, San Jose Sharks, and maybe the Tampa Bay Lightning (after Ondrej Palat injury) could be fits for winger Rick Nash. All teams have the assets to acquire him. The Rangers should be able to get a first-round pick and a legit youngster for Nash. The Rangers can also retain salary.
The Rangers might be able to get a first-round pick or young roster player for Michael Grabner.
They might be able to get a third- or fourth-round pick for defenseman Nick Holden.
They might be able to get a fourth- or fifth-round pick for David Desharnais.
The Rangers are also prepared to trade defenseman Ryan McDonagh and Mats Zuccarello. Both will be unrestricted free agents after next season. It’s unlikely that either would have received a big, long-term extension from the Rangers. There would likely be more teams interested in either at the draft as opposed to the trade deadline.
What would the Toronto Maple Leafs, Boston Bruins, and Lightning give up for McDonagh for two playoff races?
Gorton should ask for a lot for McDonagh, and if he doesn’t get it, revisit it at the draft.
The Rangers should also be able to get a significant return for Zuccarello.
