On the New Rangers
John Shannon: The New York Rangers are open for business. Everyone is available except for goaltender Henrik Lundqvist.
Furthermore, there are five teams interested in Ryan McDonagh.
A little more on Ryan McDonagh….
Larry Brooks from the New York Post: Again, the McDonagh sweepstakes is in full swing. Jeff Gorton wants full value and then some for his captain. That much is known. The problem is, does anyone want to buy at that price? That is the unknown.
Rick Nash knows he will be dealt likely in spite of his undying loyalty to the Rangers.
For McDonagh, the idea of being involved in these rumors has to be jarring but business is business. The defenseman has been sidelined since February 7th with an undisclosed upper-body injury.
Besides Boston Bruins and Tampa Bay Lightning, the Columbus Blue Jackets and Winnipeg Jets are among other potential suitors.
Does it make more sense to offload McDonagh before the draft? It probably does. The fishing for the defenseman will be a story until 3:00 PM ET Monday.
On the San Jose Sharks …
Paul Gackle of The Mercury News: Gackle speculates that Doug Wilson may just stand pat for this deadline. Aside from making a move for Eric Fehr, there may be little else.
Brent Burns is not injured and that is good news. That would have altered Wilson’s plan.
As it stands now, Wilson will not bring in a Rick Nash type or even a significant acquisition. San Jose has been able to stay steady in the playoff race.
The Sharks are locked in a playoff position right now. That is even with several injuries to boot. Do not expect much from San Jose this deadline.