The New York Rangers are facing challenges, currently sitting at the bottom of the Metropolitan Division and considering changes to their roster. With a disappointing record of 16-18-1 in the NHL, the possibility of trading a key player, Mika Zibanejad, is on the table.
NHL insider Larry Brooks reports that the Rangers are exploring significant adjustments to enhance their lineup. One possible move involves Mika Zibanejad, who previously served as the team’s top center.
General Manager Chris Drury has been active on the trade front, recently acquiring Urho Vaakanainen and Will Borgen, while parting ways with former captain Jacob Trouba and first-round pick Kaapo Kakko. It’s plausible that Drury aims to redefine the team’s makeup through trades.
This season, Zibanejad has played 35 games and managed just 21 points (6 goals, 15 assists), putting him on pace for 49 points. The question remains: who might be interested in the 31-year-old, who has a no-movement clause in his contract?
There are rumors suggesting Zibanejad could be traded to a Western Conference team or possibly join the Canadiens, where Jeff Gorton, the executive who previously traded for him, is now involved.
According to D’Amico, the Rangers’ GM has engaged in talks with a Western Conference team regarding Zibanejad’s trade value. However, negotiations could be complicated by his contract, which has five years remaining at $8.5 million per year, especially since he was recently selected for Sweden’s team in the upcoming Four Nations Tournament in February.
Could trade discussions intensify after the tournament, leading to Zibanejad donning a new uniform by the trade deadline?
This article was originally published on NY Rangers Insider and has been shared.
