NHL Rumors: Insider Reveals Drastic Moves Rangers Could Make If Slow Start Hits
The New York Rangers need a strong start in 2025-26.
Insider Dave Pagnotta told TSN Radio in Montreal that if the team struggles, “almost everything would be under consideration,” from trading star winger Artemi Panarin to evaluating Mika Zibanejad’s role or even making risky swaps involving Alexis Lafreniere. With Igor Shesterkin secured for the next eight years and a young, solidified defense corps, the Rangers’ front office could focus on retooling the forward group without committing to a full rebuild.
In terms of Artemi Panarin being “one of the best free agent signings of all-time,” I’d say he’s by far the best signing the Rangers have ever made. #NYR https://t.co/xsHZYDXS0D pic.twitter.com/38YaQxVupn
— Snark Messier (@NYRFanatic) July 22, 2025
Rangers Eye Trades and Roster Moves if Season Falters
New coach Mike Sullivan has emphasized relationships and communication to jump-start the team. He’s held one-on-one conversations with core players and collaborated closely with GM Chris Drury to set some high expectations. Sullivan hopes to have the team ready to work immediately when training camp begins, looking to avoid the distractions that plagued last season, namely the rumors surrounding Chris Kreider, Jacob Trouba, Barclay Goodrow, and contract uncertainty for Shesterkin and Lafreniere.
I've been looking at a lot of NHL player stats lately.
— Christian (@Acadian25) August 19, 2025
Is J.T. Miller one of the most underrated players in the NHL?
He's the only player with 250 pts & 500 hits over the past 3 seasons (255 pts/585 hits). His combination of power & skill is great. 103 pts/217 hits in 23-24!
A key question for the Rangers is filling the void left by Kreider, traded to the Anaheim Ducks on June 12. Will Cuylle is expected to step into a top-six role, potentially expanding his time on the power play and penalty kill.
At 23, Cuylle broke out last season to 45 points (20 goals, 25 assists), showing his physical play and scoring touch. Zibanejad’s position is also under review. He may start on the right wing alongside J.T. Miller, but Sullivan could explore having him center a top line with Miller and Vincent Trocheck.
Photo Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images
