Former Rangers Heading to Free Agency: Should They Return to New York?
As NHL Free Agency approaches, the New York Rangers need to fill some roster gaps for the upcoming season. Specifically, they are in search of a top-six player to play right wing alongside Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider. This year’s free agent class includes four former Rangers who could fit the bill. Here, we’ll evaluate these players to determine if a reunion with the Rangers makes sense or if the team should explore other options.
**Vladimir Tarasenko**
Vladimir Tarasenko, currently with the Florida Panthers, helped eliminate the Rangers from the Eastern Conference Final. Despite a quiet series, his only goal was the game-winner in Game 6, pushing the Panthers to the Stanley Cup Final. After being traded to the Panthers from the Ottawa Senators for minimal picks, he scored six goals and 14 points in 19 regular season games, plus three goals and six points in 17 playoff games.
Tarasenko, who was previously with the Rangers, might be looking for a new deal as the Panthers prioritize other players. Last year, the Rangers couldn’t afford to re-sign him, leading him to the Senators. Now, with more cap space and a need for a right winger, the Rangers could consider bringing him back if he’s willing to take a discount.
**Patrick Kane**
Patrick Kane joined the Rangers before the 2023 Trade Deadline, aiming to enhance their offensive power. However, he wasn’t at his best due to a hip injury, scoring five goals and 12 points in 19 regular season games, and one goal and six points in seven playoff games. After surgery, Kane signed with the Detroit Red Wings, scoring 20 goals and 47 points in 50 games, nearly leading them to the playoffs.
Kane is approaching free agency again and might test the market despite potential interest from the Red Wings. If he does, the Rangers could be interested in a healthier version of Kane, who only wanted to join them last season. They need to decide if they want to gamble on Kane again or seek a different type of player.
**Anthony Duclair**
Anthony Duclair last played for the Rangers in the 2014-15 season before being traded to Arizona. He has since played for eight teams and was recently traded to the Tampa Bay Lightning. He scored eight goals and 15 points in 17 regular season games but struggled in the playoffs. With the Lightning’s cap issues, Duclair is likely to test free agency.
At 28, Duclair offers goal-scoring and speed, both of which the Rangers need. He scored 31 goals two seasons ago and was instrumental in the Panthers’ run to the Stanley Cup Final. A return to the Rangers could be a good fit for both parties.
**Jonathan Marchessault**
Though Jonathan Marchessault never played an NHL game for the Rangers, he started his professional career with their AHL team. Currently a key player for the Vegas Golden Knights, Marchessault scored 42 goals and 69 points in the regular season and has been a strong playoff performer. With cap concerns in Vegas, he might hit free agency.
If available, the Rangers should pursue Marchessault, who plays a style they lack and is a proven goal-scorer in both regular season and playoffs. At 33, he may seek a final big contract, and the Rangers should consider making it work financially.
While these former Rangers could fill critical roles if they hit the open market, the team will have several options as free agency nears. The Rangers should carefully consider these players, as they each bring valuable skills that could benefit the team next season.
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