Should The Rangers Bring Back Justin Braun and Tyler Motte?
The 2022 Trade Deadline for the New York Rangers was a success for many different reasons. They made it all the way to the Eastern Conference Final and were very close to making it to the Stanley Cup Final. Although they did not achieve the ultimate goal, the pieces they added at the deadline really helped the team on their magical run. The Rangers brought in Frank Vatrano, Andrew Copp, Tyler Motte, and Justin Braun.
They all played a part on this team and although Copp and Vatrano won’t be available by this deadline, Motte and Braun could very well be. Should the Ranger look into reuniting with them or should they look in a different direction?
Both Motte and Braun signed one-year deals with teams in the offseason. Motte with the Senators and Braun went back to the Flyers. Both the Senators and Flyers are on the outside looking in of the playoffs this season and leading up to the deadline, those teams could be looking to sell off assets for futures.
Motte and Braun could find themselves on the trading block and could be on new teams after the trade deadline. The Rangers could be an option for both of them, but does it make sense for the team?
Motte has 3 goals and 9 points in 32 games this season. Not great numbers, but Motte is not known for his offensive ability. Last season, he was brought in and played on the fourth line, the penalty kill, and was used in the final moments of games if the Rangers were trying to hold onto the lead. The Rangers have players like that on the team already in Barclay Goodrow and Jimmy Vesey.
Vesey could be looked at as the new Motte for the team this season as they play similar games. Motte is currently out injured with a broken finger, but when he comes back, plenty of teams will be interested in his services.
Braun has no points in 33 games played this season. He has been a healthy scratch a few times this season on the Flyers. Braun really stepped up when he came to the Rangers last season. He played well in place of the horrible Patrick Nemeth. He played in 19 playoff games alongside rookie Braden Schneider and they played well together. This season, the Rangers have had issues with the bottom defense pair a few players have had their shot playing with Schneider.
Right now, Ben Harpur is in that role, but an upgrade is needed. The team already knows how Braun plays and he could fit right back in on the defense and there would be little to worry about.
Both of these players played well as New York Rangers and they would both be welcomed back by the players and fans. If I had to guess, it is more likely that Braun would come back over Motte due to Vesey playing very well this season. and that the defense needs work. They are both likely to be traded and we could see them as Rangers again very soon.