Amid growing rumors about the New York Rangers’ offseason plans, Mika Zibanejad’s wife, Irma Zibanejad, offered insight into the couple’s current situation. Speaking to Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet, she revealed that new Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan recently visited their home, suggesting Zibanejad remains firmly in the team’s plans.
Additionally, the couple’s recent purchase of a new home in New York reinforces the idea that the 32-year-old center is not planning to leave anytime soon.
Zibanejad’s Ironclad Contract and Olympic Snub Reflect Rangers’ Uncertain Offseason Direction
Irma’s comments come as speculation has intensified regarding Zibanejad’s future with the Rangers. The team’s general manager, Chris Drury, is reportedly aiming to reshape the locker room after a disappointing stretch that saw the Rangers fall from Presidents’ Trophy winners to missing the playoffs.
The recent trade of veteran Chris Kreider to Anaheim sparked further debate about potential roster shakeups, with Zibanejad’s name surfacing more frequently in trade chatter.
Despite the rumors, Drury has reportedly remained in close communication with Zibanejad, who now stands as the longest-tenured Ranger following Kreider’s departure. Their relationship seems strong, and Zibanejad’s leadership role on the team could solidify his importance moving forward.
The couple’s real estate activities, including selling their West Village townhouse for $13 million and purchasing a new property in the city, may have been misinterpreted by media outlets, fueling speculation Irma now disputes.
Zibanejad’s Ironclad Contract and Olympic Snub Reflect Rangers’ Uncertain Offseason Direction
Zibanejad’s contract is another factor supporting the likelihood of him staying. Signed through 2029 with an eight-year, $68 million deal that includes a full no-move clause and is structured with significant bonuses, his contract is considered virtually immovable. Any trade would require his full approval, making a departure extremely unlikely unless he chooses it himself.
In a related development, the Rangers were notably absent from the first wave of players named to the 2026 Olympic men’s ice hockey tournament. Defenseman Adam Fox, previously considered a likely pick for Team USA, was left off the list in favor of stars like Auston Matthews and Matthew Tkachuk. While not directly tied to Zibanejad, the lack of Rangers representation adds another layer to the narrative surrounding the team’s future and perceived decline.
