Rangers Linked to Trading for $25M Winger in Bid to Bolster Offensive Firepower…read more…
The New York Rangers are once again making headlines in the NHL offseason rumor mill, this time reportedly being linked to a potential trade for a high-priced winger with a $25 million contract. As the franchise looks to build on last season’s playoff run and solidify its contender status, sources around the league suggest General Manager Chris Drury is eyeing a top-six forward who can provide an immediate scoring boost.
According to multiple league insiders, the Rangers have shown interest in acquiring a proven winger currently under contract with another Eastern Conference team. While the player’s name has not been officially confirmed, speculation is swirling around a handful of elite-level forwards whose contracts average out to $5 million per season over five years. These are players in their late 20s or early 30s, with playoff experience and the ability to slot into the Rangers’ top two lines.
Why the Rangers Need Scoring Help
The move would not be without purpose. Last season, the Rangers finished among the top teams in the Metropolitan Division but struggled at times with offensive consistency, especially in 5-on-5 play. While the power play remained dangerous thanks to stars like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad, the lack of scoring depth was exposed during their postseason exit.
With Vincent Trocheck and Chris Kreider both over 30, the window for this core to win now is narrowing. Kaapo Kakko and Alexis Lafrenière have shown flashes but have yet to fully break out, leading to concerns that the team may be leaning too heavily on its veterans for offense.
Adding a reliable winger who can contribute 20 to 25 goals and 50+ points per season would instantly elevate the Rangers’ scoring profile, giving head coach Peter Laviolette more flexibility and balance in his line combinations.
Who Might Be the Target?
Though no official names have been disclosed, some of the top candidates fitting the description include:
Anthony Duclair (San Jose Sharks): On an expiring deal last year, Duclair bounced back with a strong second half and is now under a new multi-year contract worth close to $25 million. He brings speed and finishing ability.
Travis Konecny (Philadelphia Flyers): Though trading within the division is rare, Konecny has been in trade rumors due to the Flyers’ ongoing rebuild. His two-way play and offensive punch make him an ideal fit.
Rickard Rakell (Pittsburgh Penguins): The Penguins are at a crossroads and may be looking to reshape their roster. Rakell, signed long-term at a similar price point, has the offensive instincts that could benefit New York.
Conor Garland (Vancouver Canucks): Previously linked to trade discussions, Garland’s cap hit and offensive skill set make him a possible candidate, especially if Vancouver seeks salary relief.
Any of these players would represent a significant boost to the Rangers’ middle-six and could potentially push them closer to the level of true Stanley Cup contenders.
Cap Considerations and Trade Cost
Acquiring a winger with a $5 million AAV would require the Rangers to maneuver carefully under the salary cap. As of mid-July, the team sits close to the cap ceiling, meaning any incoming salary would likely require salary to go out. Possible trade candidates include Barclay Goodrow, who cleared waivers earlier this summer, or one of the team’s younger, more affordable assets.
The Rangers also have several prospects that could entice teams in a trade. Forward Brennan Othmann, defenseman Zac Jones, and goaltender Dylan Garand are among the top names in their system. However, Drury has historically been reluctant to part with his best young assets unless the return is significant.
In terms of draft capital, the Rangers possess all their future first-round picks and several second- and third-rounders. That gives them some flexibility to offer a competitive package if the right winger becomes available.
Inside the Front Office’s Thinking
Chris Drury has made it clear through his actions that the Rangers are not satisfied with merely making the playoffs. After a disappointing finish to the 2024–25 season, he expressed a desire to “raise the standard” and put together a more complete and consistent team.
While the Rangers still boast one of the league’s top goaltenders in Igor Shesterkin and a veteran defense led by Adam Fox and Jacob Trouba, the team knows that playoff success often comes down to offensive depth. The recent championship runs of teams like Colorado and Florida show how crucial secondary scoring can be.
If the Rangers are to compete with the top contenders in the East—such as the Panthers, Maple Leafs, and Hurricanes—they will need to address their offensive gaps before training camp begins.
What’s Next?
The next few weeks will be critical. With NHL front offices active during the summer months, a trade could materialize quickly if both sides agree on the framework. The Rangers are likely weighing multiple scenarios, including whether to prioritize a scoring winger or a depth defenseman.
Training camp opens in September, giving the team just under two months to finalize its roster. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Rangers go all-in this offseason, or if they choose to take a more measured approach and see how their young players develop.
Either way, the buzz surrounding a potential trade for a $25 million winger suggests that the Rangers are aware of what they’re missing—and are willing to make a bold move to fix it.
One thing is clear: scoring help is on the radar in New York. Whether the front office pulls the trigger soon c
ould define the Rangers’ season before it even begins.
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