As the NHL’s annual holiday trade freeze approaches, the New York Rangers are a team under scrutiny for potential moves. After struggling throughout December, the Rangers traded captain Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks on December 6 in an attempt to change their fortunes. However, the trade didn’t help, as the Rangers have only won two of their last six games, slipping out of a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. The team’s performance has led to speculation about further changes, including whether the Rangers will be active in the trade market.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that the Rangers are “open for business” following a disheartening 5-1 loss to the Los Angeles Kings. It was also revealed that left winger Chris Kreider is available for trade, signaling the team’s willingness to make significant moves. Despite this, Friedman noted that some players, such as goaltender Igor Shesterkin, who was recently re-signed, and several others with no-movement clauses, are off-limits. Nevertheless, the Rangers are considering all options, suggesting that the team is in a state of flux and ready for a reshuffle.
Arthur Staple from The Athletic speculated that Peter Laviolette’s tenure as head coach could come to an end early, though Larry Brooks of the New York Post pointed out that the Rangers’ management has shown little appetite for making a coaching change, having already gone through two coaching changes since 2021. The Hockey News’ Remy Mastey further questioned whether coaching was the real issue, given the team’s continued struggles with physicality and defensive strength despite changes in leadership. In this context, there’s speculation about whether a coaching change would be the right move or if the problems lie elsewhere.
Amidst the uncertainty, there is notable interest in certain Rangers players. 33-year-old Chris Kreider, however, might be a difficult trade asset due to his contract and declining performance. Similarly, defenseman Ryan Lindgren, who is a pending UFA, hasn’t garnered significant trade interest. On the other hand, 23-year-old right winger Kaapo Kakko, who has been playing better than in previous seasons, is drawing attention. Kakko was recently a healthy scratch, sparking rumors that he might be traded, though sources suggest no such move is imminent. There is potential for Kakko to be traded for a draft pick or as part of a package deal.
Despite the trade speculation, experts such as Adam Proteau from The Hockey News believe that simply adding players through trades won’t fix the Rangers’ issues. The larger solution, they argue, must come from within the team itself. For the Rangers to find success, internal development and adjustments to their roster and strategy will be key. The upcoming weeks will likely see further developments as the team navigates its struggles and considers its options both on and off the ice.
