No contract talks means that Hayes and Zuccarello likely on the move
Larry Brooks: Have been told that there have been no recent contract extension talks between the New York Rangers and pending free agent Kevin Hayes. Can anticipate a trade.
It may not be too much longer before the Rangers don’t dress Hayes or Mats Zuccarello to protect from injury.
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Rangers GM Jeff Gorton isn’t holding contract talks with Kevin Hayes or Mats Zuccarello and both will likely be traded for draft picks and prospects.
The Winnipeg Jets are one of the teams interested in Hayes and have prospects like Jack Roslovic, Kristian Vesalainen and Sami Niku.
The Jets could also have interest in Zuccarello.
“We’re playing so many games now, it’s not hard to keep my focus on the ice,” said the laconic No. 13, who coincidentally had one of his most lackluster games of the year. “I’m keeping a clear mind about things. It’s not like I’m waiting to be told that I’m traded. We’ll all find out soon enough.”
Zuccarello’s on and off-ice contributions could lead him to be traded at the deadline and a re-sign on July 1st candidate.
Such talk of trading and re-signing may be considered tampering though according to some agents.
Would the Maple Leafs be interested in McQuaid?
Chris Nichols of Nichols on Hockey: Darren Dreger was on TSN 1050 and was asked about the New York Rangers and some of their trade candidates.
Defenseman Adam McQuaid will likely be traded by the deadline.
Interest in forward Mats Zuccarello is increasing.
Dreger was asked if the Toronto Maple Leafs would be interested in McQuaid.
“I can’t say they wouldn’t,” allowed Dreger. “He’s a character guy. I know the Rangers like him a lot. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if he gets traded and then potentially signs back with the Rangers in the off-season.”
Dreger continues on the Leafs-McQuaid and if he’d help them in the bigger picture.
“He’s a depth guy. He’s a character guy. He’s a physical guy. But I wouldn’t say that he’s what Toronto needs at this point. But he does have some edge. So you have that element, which wouldn’t hurt.”
Forward Kevin Hayes is another Ranger who will have his name come up.