The New York Rangers have been struggling and are among the worst teams in the NHL since just before Thanksgiving. They have recorded a dismal 3-11-0 in their last 14 games and have begun trading away important players from their roster.
This turmoil began when reports surfaced that the Rangers were looking to trade key figures like Chris Kreider and captain Jacob Trouba. Trouba was the first to be traded, followed closely by former second-overall draft pick Kaapo Kakko. While many other players have been rumored to be on the trading block, general manager Chris Drury may have a plan to salvage the 2024-25 season.
After winning the President’s Trophy last year and entering this season as serious Stanley Cup contenders, the Rangers now stand at 15-15-1 and risk falling further in the Eastern Conference standings. There are hints that the Rangers might be gearing up for significant changes.
As stated by Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts Podcast, the Rangers are not finished with their moves, and major changes could be on the horizon.
“I think overall, they’re looking to take a big swing at something,” Friedman remarked. “A very big swing.”
While Friedman hasn’t completely ruled the Rangers out for the season, he acknowledges that making a playoff push in the Metropolitan Division will be challenging.
“They’ve played the same number of games as the Carolina Hurricanes, currently in third place, yet they are already 10 points behind,” Friedman noted. Additionally, they are 13 points back of the Washington Capitals, who hold second place in the division with the same number of games played.
The Rangers are not entirely out of contention, but they will need a significant change to turn their season around, potentially through a major trade if they can find a suitable player.
Although the trade market isn’t overflowing with superstars, some prominent names available include former Bowen Byram, Marcus Pettersson, and former Ranger Frank Vatrano. Interestingly, some of the most valuable trade assets are currently playing for the Rangers.
Drury may need to think creatively, but if the Rangers hope to revive their season, they must take the bold step that Friedman anticipates.
