The New York Rangers have had a highly disappointing season so far. Just a year ago, the team claimed their fourth franchise President’s Trophy, but with their current 17-19-1 record, that success now feels like a distant memory.
It’s evident that changes are needed both within the team and in the Big Apple. Here are three players who could be strong candidates for a potential trade later this season.
Chris Kreider Receiving Attention Despite Injury
Longtime Ranger Chris Kreider is currently in the fifth year of his six-year, $45.5 million contract. The 33-year-old has struggled this season, recording 15 points (13 goals, 2 assists) in 34 games with a -8 plus/minus rating. This performance is a stark contrast to last season when he nearly reached a career-high with 75 points (39 goals, 36 assists) in 82 games. Once among the NHL’s top goal scorers, Kreider netted an impressive 52 goals during the 2021-22 season.
If the Rangers are serious about initiating a retool, trading Kreider should be a priority. While he is currently on injured reserve, reports suggest positive updates regarding his recovery. If Kreider stays healthy and is paired with skilled playmakers, he could be a valuable asset to any team.
K’Andre Miller Might Develop Better Somewhere Else
At 24, Miller has yet to meet expectations in his five seasons with the Rangers. With just seven points (2 goals, 5 assists) in 35 games this season, he hasn’t developed into the offensive defenseman New York had envisioned. His best performance came two seasons ago when he recorded 47 points (9 goals, 34 assists) in 79 games, but his production has steadily declined since. Despite averaging over 20 minutes of ice time per game, his impact seems diminished.
Miller could excel on a team in need of a top-pairing left-handed defenseman. Currently, he is playing on the second defensive line on the right side, which is not his strong suit. Still young, Miller has time to fulfill his potential if placed in a more suitable role. With his restricted free agent (RFA) status approaching this offseason, the Rangers may consider trading him to capitalize on his untapped potential.
Ryan Lindgren is a Brute Force on Defense
Ryan Lindgren, 26, finds himself in a similar situation as Miller, struggling to get enough ice time to fully develop. Despite playing alongside Adam Fox on the top defensive pairing, Lindgren averages under 20 minutes per game. With nine points (2 goals, 7 assists) in 36 games, he’s on pace to tie his career-high of 18 points. Known more for his defensive prowess, Lindgren excels in positioning, shot-blocking, and using his physical presence to disrupt plays effectively.
Lindgren is nearing the expiration of his one-year, $4.5 million contract and will become a restricted free agent (RFA) this offseason. Like Miller, the Rangers might look to capitalize on Lindgren’s trade value while his RFA status remains an asset. His skill set and reliability make him a desirable addition for any team willing to offer a substantial return.
