New York Rangers roundtable: What will happen by the trade deadline?

Garrett Gartino

I’m not going to lie, the trade deadline tends to be my favorite part of any NHL season. The shuffling of rosters and constantly changing rumor mill reinvigorates my attention around the league.

For the first time in my history as a fan, the New York Rangers will be on the selling end of that excitement.

Nick Holden is already out the door, and a few other lineup regulars should be soon to follow. Rick Nash and Michael Grabner are the two that are the most likely to have new teams by next week (Grabner already has his new team).

Nash’s landing spot very uncertain. Nashville and San Jose seem like good fits, but the asking price will remain high until the best offer is in hand.

Conversely, I do not believe team-favorites Ryan McDonagh and Mats Zuccarello will be moved. Despite possible contract demand worries for McDonagh, his value to this team for the next two seasons is far too valuable for teams to replicate via trade.

Zuccarello’s situation is similar. He is the heartbeat of this New York Rangers team. All in all, the Rangers are in great position to improve their roster and draft position this trade deadline. If Jeff Gorton plays his cards right, this team could be a playoff contender again in no time.