The New York Rangers have had a disappointing season, especially in contrast to their successful past year when they won their fourth President’s Trophy. With a current record of 17-19-1, it seems like last season was just a distant memory. It’s evident that changes are needed within the team. Here are three players who might be prime trade candidates as the season progresses.
**Chris Kreider Draws Interest Despite Injuries**
Kreider, who has spent his entire career with the Rangers, is in the fifth year of a six-year, $45.5 million deal. At age 33, he has accumulated 15 points (13 goals, 2 assists) over 34 games, currently holding a minus-8 rating. This season has been tough for him, especially after achieving nearly a career-high of 75 points (39 goals, 36 assists) last year. He was once among the NHL’s top goal scorers, netting 52 goals in the 2021-22 season. If the Rangers are looking to revamp their roster, trading Kreider could be a strategic move. Although he is currently on injured reserve, there are encouraging signs regarding his recovery. If he regains his health and teams up with skilled playmakers, he could significantly enhance any team he joins.
**K’Andre Miller May Flourish Elsewhere**
Twenty-four-year-old K’Andre Miller has not met expectations during his five seasons with the Rangers. With only seven points (2 goals, 5 assists) in 35 games, he hasn’t become the offensive defenseman the team envisioned. His best season was two years ago when he achieved 47 points (9 goals, 34 assists) but has seen a decline since. Despite averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game, it seems as if his role has diminished. If Miller were to join a team in need of a top-pairing left-handed defenseman, he could really excel. Currently, he’s playing on the second defensive line on the right side, which is not his strength. Being young, he still has the potential to develop significantly, and with his restricted free agent status coming up, the Rangers might consider leveraging his value in trades.
**Ryan Lindgren is a Defensive Powerhouse**
Like Miller, 26-year-old Ryan Lindgren is struggling for enough ice time to grow. Even though he plays alongside Adam Fox on the first line, his average ice time is less than 20 minutes. He has managed nine points (2 goals, 7 assists) in 36 games, still aiming to reach his career-high of 18 points. Renowned for his strong defensive skills and physicality, Lindgren excels at positioning himself to block shots and disrupt plays with his sizable presence. As he approaches the end of his one-year, $4.5 million contract and becomes a restricted free agent this offseason, the Rangers might explore trading their younger players like Lindgren, who could be a valuable asset for any team looking to improve their defense.
