Three Veteran Free Agents the Rangers Could Sign
The 2024 free agent market offers several veteran players, some of whom might fit the New York Rangers’ needs for affordability, offense, defense, and mentorship, despite potential cap issues. Here are three versatile veterans the Rangers could target:
Kevin Shattenkirk, D, Boston Bruins, 2024 Free Agent
Kevin Shattenkirk, a 35-year-old defenseman, delivered solid defensive stats with the Boston Bruins last season, including 85 blocks and 63 hits in 61 games. His veteran presence, bolstered by a Stanley Cup win with the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2019-20, enhances his appeal. Shattenkirk showcased his two-way abilities, scoring six goals and 18 assists with the Bruins, and previously notched four goals and 23 assists in 75 games with the Anaheim Ducks in 2022-23. His best season was in 2021-22, with eight goals and 27 assists, and an impressive 135 blocks in 82 games.
Shattenkirk’s ability to read the play was highlighted on Dec. 2, 2023, when he scored his first goal for the Bruins from a David Pastrnak feed against the Toronto Maple Leafs, contributing to a 4-3 overtime win. With a $1.05 million cap hit in 2023-24, Shattenkirk could be a valuable addition to the Rangers’ defense, which currently has $5.123 million in cap space.
Justin Schultz, D, Seattle Kraken, 2024 Free Agent
Justin Schultz, a 34-year-old defenseman from Kelowna, B.C., recorded 68 blocks and 26 points (seven goals, 19 assists) in 70 games with the Seattle Kraken last season. Schultz played a key role in the Pittsburgh Penguins’ consecutive Stanley Cup wins, achieving career highs in blocks (116) and hits (67) in the 2016-17 season, alongside 51 points in 78 games. His extensive NHL experience would make him a strong veteran presence for the Rangers’ defensive pairings.
On May 2, 2023, Schultz scored the first of three Kraken goals in under a minute against the Dallas Stars during Game 1 of the Western Conference Second Round, tying the game at 2-2. Schultz’s performance contributed to a 5-4 overtime win for Seattle. With a $3 million cap hit in 2023-24, Schultz could be a strategic addition for the Rangers.
Max Pacioretty, LW, Washington Capitals, 2024 Free Agent
Max Pacioretty, a former captain of the Montreal Canadiens and the 2011-12 Bill Masterson Memorial Trophy winner, achieved his offensive peak with 37 goals and 67 points in 80 games in the 2014-15 season. Last season, the 35-year-old American forward scored four goals and 19 assists in 47 games for the Washington Capitals, despite injuries. Pacioretty’s leadership and scoring ability could enhance the Rangers’ forward lineup if he remains healthy.
On Jan. 11, 2024, Pacioretty scored his first goal of the season with assists from Alex Ovechkin and Trevor van Riemsdyk, putting the Capitals on the board in a game against Seattle, although they ultimately lost 4-1. With a $2 million cap hit in 2023-24, Pacioretty could bring valuable experience and offensive skill to the Rangers.
