Amidst a disappointing season for the New York Rangers, speculation has emerged that the team might consider trading Mika Zibanejad. Despite Zibanejad's strong performance this season, an NHL insider suggests that General Manager Chris Drury, known for his willingness to shake up the roster, could explore moving the veteran center.
The Rangers currently sit at the bottom of the Metropolitan Division with a 21-22-6 record. This underwhelming performance has prompted questions about the future of the team's core players. While names like Igor Shesterkin, Adam Fox, and potentially J.T. Miller are considered untouchable, other key players might be on the table as Drury looks to retool the roster.
Mika Zibanejad, 32, is in the fourth year of an eight-year, $68 million contract with a full no-movement clause (NMC) through 2028-29. This gives Zibanejad significant control over his future, as he would need to waive his NMC to accept any trade. While Zibanejad previously expressed his desire to stay in New York, the team's struggles might lead him to reconsider his stance and evaluate potential trade destinations.
"I am curious if teams poke around on Mika Zibanejad," wrote David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. "Trade chatter surrounded him around the NHL Draft and over the off-season, and while he was adamant, at the time, that he had no interest in waiving his NMC and accepting a trade, he may now reconsider and could be open to evaluating possible trade destinations given the club's new direction".
Zibanejad is having a bounce-back season, with 21 goals and 25 assists for 46 points in 48 games. He recently tied a Rangers franchise record for most career hat tricks in the regular season. Despite his offensive contributions, Zibanejad's defensive struggles, reflected in his plus/minus rating, have been a concern. He was a -22 in 2024-25 and is currently a -15 in 2025-26.
Trading Zibanejad would be a significant move, signaling a potential retooling phase for the Rangers. He has been a key player for the team, becoming the longest-tenured Ranger after Chris Kreider's trade last offseason. If Zibanejad were to become available, he could be the top center on the trade market, attracting interest from teams looking to bolster their Stanley Cup aspirations.
However, some reports suggest that Zibanejad is not likely to be moved. A team insider indicated that Zibanejad is considered a core player who will remain with the Rangers during the retooling process. This aligns with the team's stated plan to build around a core group rather than undertake a complete teardown.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Zibanejad, given his no-move clause. Whether he remains committed to the Rangers or becomes open to a trade will significantly impact the team's direction as the trade deadline approaches.
