On the New York Rangers, Los Angeles Kings, Vancouver Canucks, Kevin Shattenkirk and Brian Boyle …
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Three sources have said that when teams are talking to the New York Rangers, they bring up J.T. Miller, and are told “No, thank you.” There is always the chance that could change due to the player being offered.
The Rangers won’t be in on Kevin Shattenkirk unless the Blues lower their asking price.
The Rangers can add players totaling a $10 million salary cap hit. It’s likely the Rangers will look to add depth as opposed to making a big splash.
The Rangers have been scouting the LA Kings a lot lately. They could be interested in Paul LaDue, who is currently out with an upper-body injury.
Darren Dreger linked the Rangers to Detroit Red Wings defenseman Brendan Smith.
Would the Rangers move defenseman Kevin Klein ($2.9 million for one more year) for a forward if they were acquire someone like LaDue or Smith?
Could the Rangers be interested in Vancouver Canucks forward Jannik Hansen?
The Boston Bruins, Toronto Maple Leafs and Edmonton Oilers are interested in Kevin Shattenkirk.
Tampa Bay Lightning center Brian Boyle would be a good fit in Minnesota or Edmonton.
Buffalo Sabres forward Brian Gionta has said he doesn’t want to be traded.
On the New York Rangers …
Steve Zipay of Newsday: The Rangers don’t have any pending unrestricted free agents.
Five players have deals that expire next year – Rick Nash, Michael Grabner, Kevin Klein, Nick Holden and Antti Raanta.
Six pending restricted free agents – Mika Zibanejad, Brandon Pirri, Jesper Fast, Matt Puempel, Oscar Lindberg and Adam Clendening. It’s unlikely they trade Zibanejad, but the remaining RFAs might get interest someone.
GM Jeff Gorton may prefer to trade draft pick or prospects as opposed to roster players.
“Right now, I like my team,” Vigneault said. “I like the way the guys prepare and their work ethic and how they compete. Jeff and I communicate every day on our team and obviously our needs . . . He knows my opinion on our group and if there are areas we can improve. He’s known that for quite some time. I’m happy with what we have here. I think we’ve got a good team, a good, young group that’s hungry, and that’s what I’m focused on.”
