New York Rangers: Five possible replacements for Brendan Smith

Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 15, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Dmitry Orlov (9) passes the puck against the Toronto Maple Leafs in game two of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 15, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Dmitry Orlov (9) passes the puck against the Toronto Maple Leafs in game two of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Dimitry Orlov

Replacing Brendan Smith with Dimitry Orlov may not be as easy as some of the other guys I suggested. But boy would he be a replacement.

Orlov is a restricted free agent. The Rangers could either trade for his negotiating rights and go from there, or take a risk and make an offer that the Capitals could match.

The Washington Capitals may have a tough time resigning Orlov given their cap restraints and Orlov has threatened to go to the KHL if he doesn’t get what he wants.

Here’s where the New York Rangers come in. There has been some speculation that Orlov would make a good fit for the Rangers, they would just need to work out the logistics of making it happen.

Orlov could be a perfect match. Acquiring him may not be perfect for the Rangers, but if they could make it work they will likely be happy with their return.