TRANSFER NEWS: Rangers Eye Blockbuster Trade to Bolster Defense Ahead of Stanley Cup Push.
The New York Rangers are considered strong contenders for the Stanley Cup this season, and a recent trade suggestion aims to strengthen their defense.
PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool allows users to create hypothetical trades. One proposal suggests the Rangers could acquire Alex Vlasic from the Chicago Blackhawks.
Proposed trade:
Rangers receive: Alex Vlasic
Blackhawks receive: Ryan Lindgren, Brennan Othmann, Kalle Vaisanen, a 2025 sixth-round pick, and a 2026 fifth-round pick.
This trade would be a major move, bringing the Rangers a talented defenseman in Vlasic in exchange for a current NHL player, two prospects, and two draft picks.
Vlasic, 23, is entering the first season of a six-year, $27.6 million contract. He would be a key part of New York’s defense, particularly if the team decides to trade Jacob Trouba. Last season, Vlasic scored 2 goals and 14 assists, totaling 16 points in 76 games with the Blackhawks.
In return, the Rangers would part with Lindgren, a 26-year-old defenseman who could step into Vlasic’s role on Chicago’s defense. Last season, Lindgren recorded 3 goals and 14 assists, with 17 points in 76 games.
Brennan Othmann, selected 16th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, is a significant piece of the trade. Although he didn’t score in 3 NHL games last season, he tallied 21 goals and 28 assists in 67 AHL games. He aligns with Chicago’s young roster and could be in the NHL soon.
Kalle Vaisanen, drafted 106th overall by New York in 2021, appeared in 3 AHL games last season without registering points, and is expected to continue his development in the AHL.
Rangers GM Acknowledges Pressure to Win:
Despite being one of the top NHL teams in recent seasons, the Rangers have yet to capture the Stanley Cup. As training camp began, GM Chris Drury acknowledged the pressure to break through.
“Our goal is to win the Cup,” Drury said, according to USA Today. “I’m always looking for ways to improve and help us compete for the Cup. It all starts at training camp, and I’m excited to have coach Peter Laviolette for his second camp. Hopefully, we have a strong regular season and get a shot at the playoffs.”
The Rangers have qualified for the playoffs the past three seasons and held the league’s best record last season.
