The New York Rangers are expected to take an aggressive approach this offseason following a disappointing year in which they missed the playoffs—just one season after finishing with the NHL’s best regular-season record and winning the Presidents’ Trophy.
Amid speculation that the team may move on from veterans like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Chris Kreider, New York is now being linked to a potential free-agent addition: Winnipeg Jets forward, according to NHL insiders Shayna Goldman and Murat Ates of The Athletic.
Top star, who just wrapped up a seven-year, $42 million contract, is seen as an ideal target for the Rangers if they can clear enough cap space.
“If they do clear enough space to sign top prospect, he could be a perfect fit… Ehlers solves a lot of problems,” the article states. “He’s a left-shot winger with experience playing on the right side, including a standout run with Mark Scheifele and Mathieu Perreault in 2019.”
The report also notes Ehlers could replace Kreider on the left wing or shift to the right side to accommodate other core pieces. Regardless of alignment, his addition could help rejuvenate a power play unit that underachieved despite its star power in 2024-25.
Ehlers would bring a high-end offensive skillset to New York’s top-six forward group. He recorded 24 goals and 39 assists for 63 points in 69 games last season with Winnipeg.
Rangers GM Confident Team Can Reach Goals
Despite a disappointing season, the New York Rangers chose to extend the contract of general manager Chris Drury.
Drury now faces the challenge of reshaping the roster and guiding the team back into Stanley Cup contention. Following the announcement of his extension, Drury emphasized his commitment to the franchise’s future.
“I’m honored to sign this extension and continue in this role with the team I grew up rooting for,” Drury said. “As I mentioned when I first stepped into this position nearly four years ago, there’s no organization in hockey quite like this one. I’m excited to keep working this offseason to help us achieve our goals for next year and beyond.”
Drury’s first major move of the offseason was bringing in veteran coach Mike Sullivan. Now, his focus shifts to the NHL Draft and free agency, where the Rangers are expected to be one of the more active and closely watched teams.
What is Ehlers Expected to Get in Free Agency?
Nikolaj Ehlers is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason, with the dynamic winger likely earning a significant raise from his previous contract.
According to AFP Analytics, Ehlers is projected to land a six-year deal worth \$48.6 million, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of \$8.1 million. However, if he reaches the open market, he could command even more—potentially a full seven-year contract—as multiple teams are expected to pursue him aggressively, possibly sparking a bidding war.
Throughout his NHL career, Ehlers has appeared in 674 games, tallying 225 goals and 295 assists for a total of 520 points.