New York Rangers’ Free Agent targets: who should be signed?

Connor Healey- Nick Bonino

Nick Bonino could be a potential target for the Rangers this off-season. Bonino is a second or third line center that has proven himself on the biggest stage. This Stanley Cup champion was pivotal in the Penguins 2016 championship run centering the HBK (Carl Hagelin, Nick Bonino, and Phil Kessel) line.

With the uncertainty of the expansion draft and what Jeff Gorton is thinking about in regards to the Rangers core players, an experience center should be looked at. This season the Rangers experienced a disappointing playoff performance from Derek Stepan and an up and down year from Kevin Hayes. Having strength up the middle of the ice is crucial to advancing far in the playoffs. Bonino is a player who, if at the right price, could provide stability to the center position.

Bonino is currently under 30 years old (29) and is a steady 35-45 point scorer. He will not be a defensive liability and he will be crucial on the penalty kill. His contract on the Penguins was worth $5.3 million dollars for 3 years (Sportrac) . Bonino will be looking for a raise and it is deserving. A deal that makes sense would be around 4-5 years and between $14-16 million dollars.

Despite the fact that the Penguins will be in the front running for Bonino’s services, the Rangers should look his way if one of their centers is either traded or drafted to Las Vegas.