A recent trade proposal has the New York Rangers acquiring star defenseman Zach Werenski from the Columbus Blue Jackets in a blockbuster deal. The proposed trade would see the Rangers sending defenseman Ryan Lindgren, forwards Gabe Perreault and Filip Chytil, winger Kaapo Kakko, a 2025 first-round pick, and a 2026 third-round pick to Columbus.
In return, the Rangers would receive Werenski and forward Dmitri Voronkov. Werenski, a two-time All-Star, is entering the third year of his six-year, $57.5 million contract. This move would significantly bolster the Rangers’ blue line as they aim for a Stanley Cup run.
The Rangers have been active in reshaping their roster. In a recent trade, they acquired forward J.T. Miller from the Vancouver Canucks, sending Chytil, defenseman Victor Mancini, and a top-13 protected 2025 first-round pick to Vancouver. Miller, known for his skill, size, physicality, and strong two-way play, is expected to be a core player moving forward. This acquisition aims to bolster the Rangers’ lineup for the immediate future.
Additionally, the Rangers have made strategic moves to build for the future. They traded impending free agents Ryan Lindgren and Jimmy Vesey to the Colorado Avalanche for a conditional second and fourth-round draft pick, along with defenseman Calvin de Haan and forward Juuso Parssinen. This trade signals the Rangers’ focus on building a strong future rather than making a short-term push for a playoff spot.
These moves reflect the Rangers’ commitment to strengthening their roster both for the present and the future. The potential acquisition of Werenski would address a key need on the blue line, while the addition of Miller adds depth to the forward group. The strategic trades involving Lindgren and Vesey demonstrate a long-term vision aimed at creating a more physically competitive team without compromising talent.
As the offseason progresses, the Rangers are expected to continue evaluating their roster and making moves that align with their goal of building a championship-contending team.
