The New York Rangers are facing a pivotal moment, with the upcoming NHL trade deadline casting a long shadow. The team's recent announcement to potentially 'retool' the roster has ignited speculation, especially regarding key players like Artemi Panarin, Vincent Trocheck, and, most notably, Alexis Lafreniere. But will they trade him?
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, during a recent 32 Thoughts podcast, offered a compelling perspective on the Rangers' potential strategy. Friedman suggests the team might prioritize 'fixing' Lafreniere rather than trading him.
"The challenge with trading a guy like Lafreniere is that if you’re the Rangers you’re still saying this guy was a No. 1 overall pick just a few years ago and you’re trading him like that," Friedman stated. He added that while other teams might try to 'steal' Lafreniere, the Rangers would prefer to nurture his talent, aiming to maximize his potential within the organization.
But here's where it gets controversial... Despite this preference, Friedman acknowledges the Rangers must listen to offers. Lafreniere's contract, lacking a no-move clause and with a modified no-trade clause kicking in much later, makes him a tradable asset.
Lafreniere's performance has been a mixed bag. He currently has 28 points (with 10 goals and 18 assists) in 49 games. While he's shown flashes of brilliance, like the recent Winter Classic victory where he had a career-high three assists, his consistency has been a concern.
These moments of promise, combined with his status as the No. 1 pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, likely influence the Rangers' thinking. However, his inconsistency and a drop-off from his career-high 28 goals and 57 points in the 2023-24 season make him a legitimate trade candidate.
His current contract, at $7.45 million annually for another six years, is both an asset and a reason to keep him. The team has time to decide on his future, with no immediate restrictions on where he could be traded.
Moving on to other players, Trocheck presents a different scenario. While he also lacks a complete no-move clause, he does have a 12-team no-trade clause. Friedman believes the Rangers value Trocheck but will listen to offers, understanding the realities of the situation. He is under team control for three more seasons at an affordable $5.625 million annual salary.
And this is the part most people miss... Regarding Panarin, the Rangers have already informed their leading scorer that they won't be offering a contract extension and will try to trade him. Panarin, however, seems bewildered by this decision and prefers to stay with the Rangers. This could complicate trade negotiations, especially if he only agrees to go to a few specific teams.
Friedman speculates on potential trade scenarios, including the San Jose Sharks, where Panarin could play alongside rising star Macklin Celebrini. However, the ultimate decision rests with Panarin.
Rangers general manager Chris Drury has made his intentions known, but the final outcome remains uncertain. The trade deadline is approaching, and the Rangers' decisions will significantly shape their future.
What do you think? Will the Rangers make the right choice with Lafreniere? Do you agree with their approach to Trocheck and Panarin? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
