It is no secret that the New York Rangers are hoping to be more competitive next season. They have been one of the NHL's busier teams this offseason, as they have brought in many new players. Among the Rangers' most notable newcomers are Pavel Dorofeyev, Marcus Pettersson, Sean Durzi, and Oliver Bjorkstrand.
Yet, it is fair to argue that the Rangers could use another winger with skill to solidify their top nine. Because of this, one player who Rangers general manager Chris Drury should be keeping an eye on this offseason is Pittsburgh Penguins forward Andrei Kuzmenko.
The Penguins just signed Kuzmenko to a one-year, $5 million contract at the start of free agency. Due to this, him being traded before the start of the season is unlikely. However, if the Penguins fall back down to Earth next season and are not a playoff team, Kuzmenko would become a prime trade candidate.
If Kuzmenko becomes available next season, he would be worth taking a gamble on for the Rangers. When playing at his best, the 30-year-old forward can provide strong secondary offensive production, and that is something the Rangers could use more of.
In 52 games last season with the Los Angeles Kings, Kuzmenko posted 13 goals and 25 points. This was after he had 11 goals and 37 points in 66 games split between the Calgary Flames, Philadelphia Flyers, and Kings in 2024-25.
However, he has shown some stronger offensive totals in other seasons. He had an impressive 25 points in just 29 games after being acquired by the Flames during the 2023-24 season. He also set career highs with 39 goals and 74 points as a rookie in 2022-23 with the Vancouver Canucks. With this, he has the potential to provide strong offense and could be a solid pickup for the Rangers next season.
Where Kuzmenko could fit in the Rangers' lineup if acquired
If the Rangers acquired Kuzmenko from the Penguins next season, he could be a strong fit in their middle six. When looking at the Rangers' current projected lineup, Kuzmenko could work well on their second line with J.T. Miller and Alexis Lafreniere. However, he could also be used on their third line with Will Cuylle and Noah Laba. In either scenario, he would have the potential to provide the Rangers' forward group with a real boost.
Kuzmenko would also give the Rangers another clear option for their power play if acquired. He works well on the man advantage, as eight of his 13 goals last season were on the power play.
It will be interesting to see if the Rangers make a push for Kuzmenko next season. The fit looks strong on paper.
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