As NHL free agency approaches, the New York Rangers face critical decisions that will shape their trajectory for the upcoming season and beyond. After a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw them miss the playoffs after winning the President's Trophy the year before, General Manager Chris Drury is under pressure to make impactful moves. Here are three key questions the Rangers need to address as free agency begins:
1. How will the Rangers address their defensive needs, particularly on the left side?
The Rangers' defensive corps needs a significant revamp. While Adam Fox remains a cornerstone on the right side, the left side presents several uncertainties. K'Andre Miller, a restricted free agent, is at the center of trade rumors after a disappointing year. The Rangers must decide whether to trade Miller, extend his contract, or explore other options in free agency.
Several free-agent defensemen could be potential targets. Dmitry Orlov, a veteran with experience from Washington and Carolina, could provide a top-four presence on the left side. Other options include Gavrikov, who has drawn interest from the Rangers. The Rangers also need to consider the future roles of young defensemen like Alexander Nikishin and Scott Morrow, who are currently developing in Europe and the AHL, respectively. The team needs a top-four left-handed defenseman who can play with or take some of the load off of Fox. Carson Soucy, acquired before the trade deadline, is on an expiring deal and could also be a trade candidate.
2. What is the plan for the Rangers' core players, especially Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad?
Chris Kreider has already been traded to the Anaheim Ducks. His departure signifies a need to fill the top-six forward group. The Rangers need to determine if they will rely on existing players like Will Cuylle and Gabe Perreault to step into those roles or seek external additions through free agency or trades.
Mika Zibanejad's future is also a question. While trading Zibanejad would open up cap space, it would also create a void at the center position. The Rangers need to decide if they believe Zibanejad can rebound from a subpar season or if they need to explore other options to improve their forward depth. Artemi Panarin is eligible for an extension, and re-signing him should be a priority, even on a short-term deal.
3. How will the Rangers balance short-term competitiveness with long-term development?
The Rangers have a depleted prospect pool and need to replenish it through the draft and strategic free-agent signings. With limited cap space, Drury must make shrewd decisions to maximize the team's potential while also planning for the future. The Rangers need to decide whether to convey their first-round pick to Pittsburgh or keep it and risk losing their 2026 first-round pick.
The team's approach to restricted free agents like Will Cuylle and K'Andre Miller will also reflect their long-term vision. Cuylle, a power forward who had a strong sophomore season, is likely to be re-signed. The Rangers need to integrate young players like Brennan Othmann and Gabe Perreault into the lineup while also adding veteran leadership. This involves finding players who can contribute immediately while also fitting into the team's long-term plans.
Ultimately, the Rangers' success in free agency will depend on their ability to answer these questions decisively and execute a clear plan that addresses both their immediate needs and long-term goals.
