New York Rangers: Ranking the last five offseasons

Fourth: 2014

While the Rangers won the President’s Trophy in the 2014-2015 season, the offseason leading in left much to be desired. The Rangers made very little adjustments from the team that made a Stanley Cup appearance.

In fact, there was a few notable subtractions. Gone was Brad Richards via a buyout, and Benoit Pouliot to free agency. Fourth liners Brian Boyle and Derek Dorsett were also not brought back, two key fourth liners that gave the Rangers great depth.

The Rangers were relying on guys like Derek Brassard and Mats Zuccarello to take the next step and crack the top six. The Rangers did sign Dan Boyle to a two year contract, and Boyle did play well enough to justify the contract. However, he replaced Anton Stralman, who was a considerably better defender that the Rangers let go at a similar price.

The saving grace was the signing of coveted college free agent Kevin Hayes. Hayes decided not to sign with the Chicago Blackhawks, and instead sign with the New York Rangers in August of 2014. In his first year, Hayes scored 17 goals and 28 assists for 45 points in 79 games. It was a marvelous rookie season for Hayes, and the Rangers knew they added a core piece for absolutely nothing at all.

The Rangers would go on to win the President’s Trophy due to many players stepping up, especially Hayes. Sometimes not doing much works out best after all. But, the moves the Rangers did make still helped them.