New York Rangers could trade for 2018 free agents centers

Bryan Little

A perennially underrated player, Bryan Little has quietly put together an impressive career in Atlanta and Winnipeg. Good for 50-60 points in a full season, the veteran is an important part of Winnipeg’s core.

However, tides may be changing. With two straight injury-shortened seasons and young reinforcements on the way, the Jets may be looking to shift away from Little and invest in the future.

At 29 years old and carrying a $4.7 million cap hit, Little would be a good fit for the New York Rangers top-six. The injury problems are a risk, but sometimes you need to take a risk to find the right answer.

Like Bozak, Little would be a short-term solution. The Rangers are clearly hoping that Andersson develops into a solid top-six piece, but going with a proven veteran is a safe route in the meantime. The injury risk with Little might even be a bargaining chip for the Rangers in a potential trade, especially since Little hasn’t played a full season since 2014.

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One way or another, Gorton must be exploring his options at getting the Rangers an impact center for the 2017-18 season and beyond.