Hard Choices Ahead: Who the Rangers Must Keep While They Sell
In case you've somehow missed it, the New York Rangers seem to be on the verge of selling. Since no extension is planned for Artemi Panarin, teams on both sides have been interested, but not just in Panarin. It would seem quite a few teams have taken an interest in Vincent Trocheck. With plenty of Blueshirts sparking interest with quite a few teams, it leaves plenty to expect in return for a team looking to retool. While this team should move on from a few veterans, what about those who are simply too valuable to get rid of?
Adam Fox
Though the Rangers haven't been the best defensive team for the last few seasons, it's safe to say Adam Fox was far from the problem. The 2021 Norris Trophy Winner continues to shine on the ice both defensively and offensively. Still injured, there's a big difference on this team when Fox isn't on the ice, as the Blueshirts continue to struggle. The Rangers' power play just hasn't been the same since Fox has been out, showing fans how big a piece he is to this team.
Vladislav Gavrikov
One of the biggest moves last offseason was the Rangers' acquisition of Vladislav Gavrikov, most likely in one final attempt to help the Rangers bounce back after the previous season. Since being placed with Adam Fox on defense, this pair has been nothing but special for the Blueshirts. A big contributing factor in the Rangers' starting the season as one of the best defensive teams in the league. Entering the season with a career high of six goals last season, Gavrikov now has eight, just a little more than halfway through the season.
Igor Shesterkin
Should anything else really be said? Being the sole reason this team has reached two Eastern Conference Finals in three seasons, Igor Shesterkin remains the most valuable piece of the Rangers. Though he's had trouble this season, what else can a goalie really do when it's a season like this? Thankfully, New York has nothing to worry about as Shesterkin goes through the first season of his eight-year contract. If the Rangers want to make the most of Igor in his prime, a fresh start next season is exactly what they need. With a few seasons of retooling, the Blueshirts could be the team Igor Shesterkin needs in front of him.
One of the biggest questions for this retool is whether Vincent Trocheck should be included. While Trocheck no doubt would make a great leader for a retooling team, the Rangers could very well use what others have to offer for him. With teams like Minnesota sparking interest, who knows what they're willing to pay for a key figure who knows how to perform in the postseason. Therefore, given where the Rangers are now, if it's what's best for the New York Rangers, then it needs to be done. Plenty of time remains between now and the trade deadline; who knows how different the Rangers will look by then?
