After a brief burst of activity early in the offseason, the remainder of the summer fizzled out. But now that the 2025–26 season is underway, it may only take one move between two teams to reignite the market.
One situation drawing major attention is the growing uncertainty between Martin Necas and the Colorado Avalanche, which closely resembles last year’s Mikko Rantanen contract saga.
Necas is in a contract year, and his future in Colorado appears uncertain. Because of this, Nestor Quixtan of Heavy Sports believes the New York Rangers should make a bold move. His proposal? A one-for-one swap sending Alexis Lafreniere to Colorado in exchange for Martin Necas.
Proposed Trade:
Rangers receive: Martin Necas
Avalanche receive: Alexis Lafreniere
“Adding Necas would supercharge the Rangers’ top six,” Quixtan wrote. “Pairing Necas with Artemi Panarin would give them elite offensive firepower. From a numbers standpoint, Necas would be a major upgrade over Lafreniere, even though the Rangers would be moving on from a former first-overall pick.”
Necas, 26, is in the second and final year of the two-year, $13 million extension he originally signed with the Hurricanes in 2024. Lafreniere, 24, just started the first season of a seven-year, $52.15 million contract he signed with the Rangers that same year.
Necas Is Red-Hot to Start the Season
While the rumors swirl, Necas is only boosting his value with his on-ice performance. The Czech winger is off to a blistering start, recording three goals and five assists for eight points in just four games.
His chemistry with Nathan MacKinnon has reached a new level, making the decision even tougher for Colorado. The Avalanche clearly love what Necas brings—but might hesitate at the price it will take to keep him long-term.
If contract talks reach a breaking point and Necas becomes available, one thing is certain:
The Rangers have been interested before—and they won’t hesitate to pursue him again.