New York Rangers Rumors: Coyotes Forward On Team's Radar

The New York Rangers have been quite active on the trade market, as they have added Vladimir Tarasenko, Niko Mikkola, and Tyler Motte to their group this month. However, they might not be done making moves before the deadline passes, as Larry Brooks reported that Arizona Coyotes forward Nick Bjugstad is on their radar.

Re the trade: Motte has far more value than Gauthier, who probably would have become scratch for playoffs. Don’t think Drury is done. Probably still a piece shy up front and/or on fourth line. Bjugstad among those on radar but has drawn heavy interest around the league.
— Larry Brooks (@NYP_Brooksie) February 19, 2023

Bjugstad has been getting a lot of attention around the league, and it is easy to understand why. The 30-year-old has quietly been putting together a strong season with Arizona, as he has 13 goals and 23 points in 57 games. With that, the 6-foot-6 center carries an easily affordable $900,000 cap hit, so that naturally adds to his appeal as a potential trade target.

The Rangers certainly could use an upgrade at the fourth-line center position over Jake Leschyshyn, and Bjugstad would give the Rangers just that. However, teams like the Boston Bruins, Calgary Flames, Edmonton Oilers, and Pittsburgh Penguins are some of the other clubs who have been linked to Bjugstad, so the Rangers will need to step up their efforts if they want to be the lucky team that lands him.