The New York Rangers missed the playoffs this season and are expected to explore major roster changes during the offseason.
One of their primary needs is to add scoring depth, and according to NHL insider Peter Baugh of The Athletic, the Rangers could target forwards in free agency. Baugh specifically links New York to Dallas Stars veteran, a versatile forward who can play both center and wing.
“The San Jose Sharks traded top star to Dallas ahead of the deadline,” Baugh noted. “He’s been playing on the left side with Roope Hintz and Mikko Rantanen. At 33, he wouldn’t bring youth to the Rangers, but his age might make him more affordable.”
Baugh also pointed out that the Rangers would likely need to clear some cap space to sign veteran guard. AFP Analytics projects him to land a two-year deal with an average annual value of $4.9 million—just slightly below his current cap hit.
Despite his age, he could be a valuable addition to a Rangers team looking to contend in 2025. Currently in the final season of his four-year, $20 million contract, he’s playing a key role for Dallas in the playoffs and could slot into New York’s middle six, offering a boost in secondary scoring.
Rangers Have Limited Cap Space
The Rangers will need to get creative this offseason given their tight salary cap situation.
With just over \$8.4 million in cap space available, according to PuckPedia, New York still has to sign pending restricted free agents Will Cuylle and K’Andre Miller.
This means that if the Rangers want to pursue any significant additions, they’ll probably have to make roster moves to free up salary space.
Rangers Hoping to be Competitive Next Season
Two seasons ago, the New York Rangers captured the Presidents’ Trophy, awarded to the team with the league’s best regular-season record.
However, the very next year, they missed the playoffs and decided to part ways with coach Peter Laviolette. Soon after, the Rangers hired Mike Sullivan, who aims to make the team a stronger contender next season.
“They’re a very talented group, and they’ve been close to winning the Stanley Cup for several years,” Sullivan said on May 8. “Every game we’ve played against them has been a tough battle. Over time, I’ve developed a lot of respect for their skill.”
Sullivan added, “I’m excited to get to know these players personally and work with them on and off the ice to build the most competitive team possible—one that can truly challenge for the Stanley Cup. That’s what we’re all striving for.”
Having led the Pittsburgh Penguins to consecutive Stanley Cup victories in his first two seasons, Sullivan brings high hopes to the Rangers’ quest to return to championship form.