NHL Rumors: Rangers Linked To 5 Trade Targets
With limited cap space and eyes on the stacked 2026 free agent class, New York is expected to be aggressive on the trade market this summer. According to Vincent Z. Mercogliano of Lohud, the Blueshirts are looking for upgrades at center, right wing, and left-handed defense—ideally players who bring youth, speed, and snarl to a stale roster.
Here are five players reportedly on Drury’s radar as the team gears up for a critical offseason.
Mason McTavish (C, Anaheim Ducks)
McTavish checks nearly every box the Rangers are looking for: he’s a strong, two-way center with a physical edge and real offensive upside. Coming off a 52-point season, the 22-year-old has the frame (6’1", 219 lbs) and the nose for high-danger scoring areas that New York desperately needs. While Anaheim hopes to pair him long-term with Leo Carlsson, Drury’s working relationship with Ducks GM Pat Verbeek leaves the door cracked for a potential blockbuster, especially if Anaheim decides to pivot toward veteran depth.
Shane Pinto (C, Ottawa Senators)
While most eyes in Ottawa have been on bigger names, Pinto is the more realistic target, and an intriguing one. The Long Island native has posted two 20-goal seasons, skates well, and brings size (6’3", 204 lbs) and smarts to the ice. He’s also fresh off a gold-medal win with Team USA. With only one year left on his deal at $3.75 million, Pinto could be a cost-effective, upside swing for a team that needs middle-six help down the middle.
Martin Nečas (RW, Colorado Avalanche)
The 26-year-old speedster flourished last season with 83 points and remains one of the league’s most dynamic skaters. However, reports suggest he wasn’t thrilled with his stint in Colorado, and the cap-strapped Avalanche might be forced to move him. Nečas would instantly upgrade New York’s pace and creativity on the wing, but fitting in his $6.5 million cap hit might require moving a big contract, like Chris Kreider’s, to make it work.
JJ Peterka (RW, Buffalo Sabres)
Peterka might be the most exciting, if complicated, target of the group. At just 23, he exploded for 68 points last season and is reportedly drawing interest from several teams. There’s no guarantee the Sabres are willing to deal him, but league chatter suggests Peterka might not be planning to stick around long-term. If Buffalo fears an offer sheet scenario, the Rangers could capitalize, though it would likely take a significant package to pry him loose.
Bowen Byram (LD, Buffalo Sabres)
The Rangers have reportedly shown interest in swapping out K’Andre Miller, and Byram could be the replacement. Once seen as a future star after winning a Cup in Colorado, the 23-year-old has stagnated a bit in Buffalo. Still, his mobility and puck-moving skills make him a compelling project, and the Sabres are actively fielding offers. A one-for-one swap with Miller could give both defensemen a fresh start and potentially solve New York’s long-term LHD needs.
Photo Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
