The New York Rangers have been nothing but disappointing this year. It was just a season ago that the team secured their fourth franchise President’s Trophy title. With their current record of 17-19-1, that season feels like a fever dream. It is clear something must change in the Big Apple and among the team. Here are three players that are prime candidates for a potential trade later this season.
Chris Kreider Receiving Attention Despite Injury
The lifelong Ranger is in the fifth year of his six-year, $45.5 million contract. This season, Chris Kreider, 33, has tallied 15 points (13g, 2a) in 34 games with a plus/minus of -8. Things haven’t looked too bright for Kreider so far, as it was just last season that he put up a near career-high 75 points (39g, 36a) in 82 games. At one point in his career, Kreider was one of the best goal scorers in the NHL, scoring 52 times in the 2021-22 season.
If the Rangers want to kickstart a retool, Kreider is a must-trade. While he may be on injured reserve, there has been reportedly positive news regarding his injury recently. If Kreider remains healthy and is put alongside strong playmakers, Kreider can benefit any squad.
K’Andre Miller Might Develop Better Somewhere Else
Miller, 24, has not lived up to his hype in his five seasons with the Rangers. With just seven points (2g, 5a) in 35 games, Miller is not the offensive defenseman New York hoped to develop. His most successful season was just two seasons ago, with 47 points (9g, 34a) in 79 games, but he has slowly declined since then. Even though he is seeing just over 20 minutes a game, it is almost as if Miller’s role is decreased on the ice.
If Miller were to play for a team needing top-pairing left-handed defensemen, he would thrive. He is currently playing on the second defensive line on the right side which is, unfortunately, his weak side. Miller is still young and has time to reach his potential as long as he is given the opportunities to thrive. Capitalizing on his potential is something the Rangers might look into, especially considering he is going to be an RFA this offseason.
Ryan Lindgren is a Brute Force on Defense
Ryan Lindgren, 26, is in the same boat as Miller, and they struggle to see enough ice time to grow. Despite being on the first line with Adam Fox, Lindgren is averaging less than 20 minutes of ice time. He has recorded nine points (2g, 7a) in 36 games, which still puts him on pace to match his career-high of 18 points. He is mainly known for his defensive playstyle and willingness to put his body in front of the shooting lane. His positioning is one of the best in the league, and he can disrupt any play with his large physical presence.
Lindgren is nearing the end of his one-year, $4.5 million contract, making him an RFA this offseason. Like Miller, the Rangers might consider capitalizing on the value these young guys bring to the trade market with their RFA status. Any team would benefit from acquiring Lindgren and would gladly give up a decent amount to trade for him.
