The New York Rangers missed the playoffs this season and are expected to make major roster moves this offseason.
One interesting trade involves the Rangers sending veteran forward to the Utah Hockey Club in exchange for their top prospect.
In this one-for-one deal, the Rangers would receive top prospect, a 24-year-old forward with one year remaining on his two-year, \$5.3 million contract. A former first-round pick, Hayton tallied 20 goals and 26 assists for 46 points over 82 games last season and would bring both skill and youth to New York’s middle six.
Meanwhile, Utah would add Kreider, a longtime staple of the Rangers’ core, who is entering the final two years of his seven-year, \$45.5 million contract. Kreider had a disappointing season with just 30 points in 68 games but could rejuvenate his career in Utah as a top-line forward and power play threat. With his name surfacing in trade rumors, a move this summer appears increasingly likely.
Kreider Wants to Remain With Rangers
Chris Kreider has been a lifelong New York Ranger since being drafted 19th overall in 2009, serving as a core piece of the franchise for over a decade.
Despite his long-standing role with the team, the Rangers’ failure to reach the playoffs has sparked speculation that the organization may look to make significant roster changes—Kreider’s name being one of the most prominent in trade discussions.
However, during the team’s locker cleanout day, Kreider expressed a strong desire to stay put. “This is home for me,” he told reporters. “This organization gave me the chance to live out my dream, so of course I want to be here and do whatever I can to help this group succeed.”
A two-time NHL All-Star, Kreider holds a 15-team no-trade clause, giving him some control over his future if the Rangers do explore potential moves.
Rangers Hire New Coach
Following their disappointing playoff miss, the New York Rangers parted ways with head coach Peter Laviolette.
On May 2, the team officially named former Pittsburgh Penguins bench boss Mike Sullivan as the 38th head coach in franchise history.
“Mike Sullivan has proven himself as one of the elite coaches in the NHL,” said Rangers GM Chris Drury in a statement. “His résumé speaks for itself—two Stanley Cups, international success with Team USA, and a strong track record of leadership. He brings a winning mentality and a championship pedigree to our bench.”
Drury, who has a long-standing relationship with Sullivan from their time as teammates and colleagues with USA Hockey, added, “It quickly became clear he was the right choice to guide this team moving forward once he became available.” Sullivan’s hiring brings a wealth of experience to a Rangers squad looking to bounce back in 2025.