The New York Rangers have been active this offseason after missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the second straight year, making several significant roster changes. One of their biggest moves was trading superstar forward Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings.
Shortly after the season ended, New York also sent forward Vincent Trocheck to the Utah Mammoth. In return, the Rangers added goaltender Joonas Korpisalo from the Boston Bruins and acquired forward Pavel Dorofeyev from the Vegas Golden Knights, later locking him up with a seven-year contract extension.
Despite those additions, New York could still be searching for more offensive firepower, potentially targeting a veteran forward looking to rebound after a disappointing season.
According to Gabriel Foley of Pro Hockey Rumors, the Rangers are among several teams showing interest in former Vancouver Canucks forward Evander Kane, who remains an unrestricted free agent after Vancouver decided not to bring him back.
Foley noted that the Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights, and Rangers are all looking for additional scoring depth among their top-nine forwards while operating close to the salary cap. Kane could provide playoff experience, physicality, and offensive upside at a relatively affordable price, possibly even through a professional tryout contract before a full commitment is made.
However, some believe adding Kane may not be the ideal move for Rangers general manager Chris Drury.
New York Rangers writer Kenneth Teape of Sports Illustrated questioned whether the veteran forward would truly fit the team’s current needs.
While Kane still brings offensive potential, toughness, and postseason experience, Teape pointed out that the 35-year-old is no longer a guaranteed top-six forward — the type of player New York is reportedly seeking. Still, his physical style and ability to play a hard-nosed game could align with the approach new coach Mike Sullivan wants to establish.
Kane Could Consider Overseas Option After Canucks Departure
With NHL opportunities becoming limited and no contract currently in place, Kane may be forced to explore alternatives outside North America. A report from Russia’s Sport-Express suggested the veteran winger could consider joining the KHL, with Ak Bars Kazan reportedly evaluating the possibility of signing him.
The report stated that the Russian club is examining the 35-year-old Canadian forward’s availability after he became a free agent. Kane spent last season with Vancouver, recording 31 points (13 goals and 18 assists) in 71 regular-season games while posting a minus-20 rating. He previously carried a $5.125 million annual salary.
Kane entered the NHL after being selected fourth overall by the Atlanta Thrashers in the 2009 NHL Draft. The franchise later became the Winnipeg Jets, and Kane went on to build a career known for scoring ability, physical play, and postseason experience.
Now, with his NHL future uncertain, the Rangers remain one of the teams linked to the veteran forward as they continue reshaping their roster.