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The New York Rangers won the Presidents’ Trophy for having the best record in the NHL this season, finishing atop the overall standings with 114 points. However, their Stanley Cup dreams were dashed when they were eliminated from the Eastern Conference Final in six games by the Florida Panthers.
That disappointing finish sparked media speculation about possible offseason roster changes. During his season-ending press conference, general manager Chris Drury indicated “Nothing’s off the table”.
Larry Brooks of the New York Post believes the Rangers have gone as far as they can with their current roster core. He felt management faced “tough decisions” with defenseman Jacob Trouba and forwards Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad after they struggled during this postseason.
Zibanejad carries an average annual value of $8.5 million over the remaining six years of his contract and a full no-movement clause. Brooks admitted approaching the 31-year-old center about accepting a trade wouldn’t be a pleasant conversation. He isn’t sure how it would affect the team’s dynamic if Zibanejad refused to go.
Trading Zibanejad would be a bold step by Drury. If such a move were possible, the Rangers’ GM would likely want a return containing a big, physical player as the centerpiece. Failing that, he could accept a return of draft picks and prospects to use as trade bait to acquire such a player or use the cap savings to add more physicality via the free-agent market.
Because of his no-movement clause, Zibanejad has full control over this situation. If he refuses to waive it, Drury must consider other trade options. Given the difficulties involved, he’ll likely return with the Rangers next season.
Assuming Zibanejad would accept a trade, which clubs might he be willing to join? The following is a list of our four best guesses and one certainty that we’ll save for the end, though it likely won’t come as a surprise.
