Could Winger Jake Guentzel Be the Answer to the New York Rangers Right Wing Woes?

After missing out on the big fish at the trade deadline, there are rumors that he might hit the free-agent market. Jake Guentzel was the name on the lips of almost every Ranger fan in the world ahead of the 2024 trade deadline, but Chris Drury swung and missed on the Omaha, Nebraska native. He didn't have the assets Pittsburgh wanted; instead, the organization from Steel City opted for a quantity offer from Carolina to bolster its future.

However, the relationship between Guentzel and the Hurricanes seems to be drawing to an end. He looks set to test the market, and according to rumors, his rights are available for a mid-round draft pick. New York desperately needs a right-winger to play alongside Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider to rejuvenate the aging veterans who have formed the roster's core for so long. Guentzel can play both sides and would fill that gap perfectly for a roster desperate for more offensive talent.

The glaring issue is the Rangers' cap situation. Guentzel is on the older side and will want a lot of money over a prolonged period after adding to his prolific track record during his time at Tar Heel State. When the sides met, he was a force in the series between the Hurricanes and Blueshirt. Given how good a look Chris Drury got of the winger, there's no doubt he'll have to consider this.

Barclay Goodrow was placed on waivers today in a move designed to free up cap space by gauging interest in the player. If he's claimed, so be it, but if he doesn't, there's a player here with a strong postseason resume who could be dealt. New York will need every penny of cap space they can get, and this is a contract that doesn't look great for the Blueshirts.