New York Rangers trade proposals prior to preseason

Scott Austin: A Second Round Pick and Boo Nieves for Lars Eller

Trading for a center like Lars Eller isn’t the most ideal option for the Rangers, but it’s a move worth considering. The Dane wouldn’t do much for the Rangers offensively, but his proven defensive acumen could help as a stop-gap until Kevin Hayes gets acclimated to the second line center role.

Eller can also play on the wings in case the coaching staff would rather slot J.T. Miller at center. His cap hit is only $3.5M which the Rangers should have after signing Mika Zibanejad.

The Capitals are also in a tricky spot cap-wise and could use another left-handed defenseman in Nick Holden. However, Washington is also in need of NHL ready forwards on the cheap so the Rangers may need to forfeit a player from Hartford. Cristoval “Boo” Nieves is a center that could be ready for primetime and could be a good fit in DC if he can stay clear from injury.

Lastly, if the Rangers need to sweeten the deal with more pieces, they have two second round picks in 2018 and could part with one if necessary.