The New York Rangers could become notable sellers at the trade deadline if their recent struggles continue. Following a loss to the Nashville Predators, New York now sits sixth in the Metropolitan Division. While they remain just one point outside of a playoff spot, time is running out for the Rangers to reverse course and save their season.
The team’s playoff outlook could have major implications for Artemi Panarin’s future. The star winger is set to become a free agent after the 2025–26 season and appears unlikely to commit long-term to New York. If the Rangers find themselves outside the playoff picture by the March 6 deadline, Panarin is widely expected to be moved. However, he may not be the only marquee name on the trade block.
According to The Athletic’s Vince Mercogliano, the Rangers could also explore trading Vincent Trocheck if the season “goes sideways.” While team owner Jim Dolan reportedly wants to avoid a complete rebuild, general manager Chris Drury may be able to persuade him to make some meaningful roster adjustments aimed at improving the franchise’s long-term outlook. Entertaining offers for Trocheck would represent a significant shift.
Vincent Trocheck’s trade value differs from Panarin’s
Trocheck would be a highly appealing target for contending teams. While Panarin is generally viewed as the more dynamic player, Trocheck could actually bring back a stronger trade return.
Panarin’s looming free agency means he would be considered a rental for playoff-bound teams, assuming he doesn’t sign an extension before the deadline. The Rangers would understandably prefer not to lose him for nothing once his contract expires.
Trocheck, by contrast, has three years remaining on his deal and carries a team-friendly $5.6 million average annual value through the 2028–29 season. He also has far more flexibility from a trade standpoint, holding only a 12-team no-trade list, compared to Panarin’s full no-move clause.
Rangers could command a sizable return for Trocheck
If New York decides to move Trocheck, the return could be substantial. Mercogliano notes that the Islanders’ trade of Brock Nelson to the Colorado Avalanche could serve as a benchmark. In that deal, New York received a top-10-protected first-round pick, a third-round selection, top prospect Calum Ritchie, and defenseman Oliver Kylington.
The Rangers might be able to surpass that package. While Nelson and Trocheck share similarities as players, Nelson was approaching free agency at the time of his trade. Moving both Panarin and Trocheck would allow the Rangers to get younger while also creating significant salary-cap flexibility. With ample cap space expected after the season, New York would be well-positioned to retool and reinvigorate its roster moving forward.