The New York Rangers were the best team in the NHL during the regular season, earning the most points. But, their run in the postseason ended in the Eastern Conference Finals, where they were defeated by the Florida Panthers.
Heading into the 2024 offseason, there will be some decisions to make. Things have already gotten off to a good start, as the San Jose Sharks claimed Barclay Goodrow after the New York Rangers placed him on waivers.
That is excellent news for New York, as his entire salary is now off their books. That leaves them with a little more salary cap space than anticipated to work with this offseason to upgrade their roster.
Where could they look for an upgrade? Analyst Dane Walsh of Forever Blueshirts has suggested that they make a trade with the Vegas Golden Knights. The target of those talks? Forward Jonathan Marchessault.
“It is clear that the New York Rangers are in need of one or two more pieces that can help take them to the next level. One option worth exploring is unrestricted free agent forward Jonathan Marchessault of the Vegas Golden Knights. This goes against the notion that the Rangers need to get younger, bigger, and stronger, but Marchessault could be a difference maker as a top-six right wing, playing either with Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider or on any new line configuration,” wrote Walsh.
Throughout the season, the New York Rangers had one of the most productive offenses in the league. But, they were stifled in the series against the Panthers, as adding some more firepower certainly wouldn’t hurt.
Chris Kreider recorded one goal and one assist in the series, with both coming in Game 5. Mika Zinbanejad, who was held without a goal in the six games, only recorded two assists in the series, both coming in Game 5 as well.
Adding someone of Marchessault caliber to the mix would certainly be a major upgrade for the team. He scored a career-high 42 goals during the 2023-24 regular season, finishing with 69 points.
He also knows what it takes to perform and win in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. In 2023 with the Golden Knights, his 13 goals scored were the most in the NFL.
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