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New York Rangers · Jul 11, 2025

Exclusive: Why Dave Maloney continues to be ‘tribal caller’ in new role as Rangers TV analyst on MSG

Dave Maloney - MSG NetworksMSG Networks

Talk with Dave Maloney for any length of time and you pick up on a few things about the New York Rangers new television analyst on MSG Networks.

He’s extremely intelligent. That intelligence is often masked by his self-deprecating sense of humor. But neither trumps just how passionate he is about the Rangers.

“I do [bleed blue]. I really do,” Maloney told Forever Blueshirts on the RINK RAP podcast. “Obviously, this sport is a very passionate sport, it has a very passionate fan base … It’s just the ethos of how it works. … We all have innate biases to those things closest to us. So I have a passion, a bias to the Rangers. But what I hope to do is present it [during broadcasts] in a way that it’s not personal.

“I’m the tribal caller, the guys in the old Indian villages that called our tribe. Are we critical of the tribe sometimes? Certainly, because it becomes a reflection on us and we take it as reflection.”

Maloney’s passion for the Rangers runs deep. It was 51 years ago that the Rangers selected him in the first round (No. 14 overall) of the 1974 NHL Draft. Maloney debuted on Broadway at 18 years old, appearing in four games during the 1974-75 season.

He was a regular on the defense corps two seasons later, and in 1978-79 became the youngest captain in Rangers history. All of 22 years old at the time, Maloney helped lead the Rangers that season to the Stanley Cup Final, where they lost in five games to the Montreal Canadiens, upsetting the favored Islanders along the way.

That season, he was joined on the Rangers by his younger brother, Don.

“The most special time in my career,” big brother Dave called those seven seasons he and Don were Blueshirts teammates.

Maloney played 657 games in the NHL, 602 with the Rangers, and the rest in his final season with the Buffalo Sabres. Since 2005-06, he was Kenny Albert’s sidekick on Rangers radio broadcasts.

Dave Maloney is joining Kenny Albert in the booth!!@DaveMaloneyMSG | @NYRangers pic.twitter.com/xxJb1jYAty

— MSG Networks (@MSGNetworks) July 9, 2025

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Now, he and Albert move into the television booth together, replacing Sam Rosen and Joe Micheletti, who each retired after last season. Taking this step alongside Albert makes it all even more special for Maloney.

“He’s just terrific, the best in the business,” Maloney said about his longtime on-air partner. “The absence of ego is reassuringly frightening. He’s a special guy. He really is.”

When told that he is deserving of this latest opportunity with the Rangers, Maloney graciously deflected the compliment.

“I’m not sure I ever deserved anything. I like to think that through the results of hard work, I’ve earned at least a look. … I’m just thankful for the opportunity.”

Related: Ryan Reaves recalls late-night vodka shots and basketball with Artemi Panarin

‘It’s amazing where life takes you’: Rangers TV analyst Dave Maloney

Maloney recounted how his first experience as a broadcaster was working alongside Kenny’s dad, legendary Rangers broadcaster Marv Albert. His fascinating and winding journey is not lost on Maloney.

“My first salvo in the booth was in the early 80’s when I got hurt in the playoffs and I ended up in the booth with Marv and Sal Messina as the third guy,” he explained. “Kenny was like 13 at that time (doing statistics for his father), and I got to know the Albert family well. So, it’s amazing where life takes you, right?”

Maloney worked outside of hockey for a number of years, though he did dabble in broadcasting, as well, including stints with Sports Channel, FOX, the Minnesota North Stars, and CTV in Canada.

He’s carried a certain perspective into the radio booth — and now on television — derived from his experience as an NHL player. It’s what balances his passion with compassion as he analyzes what’s going on.

“When the Rangers are good, my call is great! But the magic is when they’re not good to keep it on the up and up,” Maloney explained. “I respect the game so much … I don’t like the guys who played the game and only see the mistakes and don’t recognize that, hey, the game is really hard.”

So, too, is the broadcast business. And remaining tied to the same organization for half a century and all of your adult life.

At 68, Maloney is opening a new door and accepting a new challenge. He couldn’t be any happier than do it with the Rangers.

“I take great pride in being around one of the Original 6 franchises for this long and still be in a position where they say ‘OK, we’re going to tap this old guy on the shoulder and you’re going to continue to be a tribal caller.’ So, that’s awesome.”

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...ibal-caller-msg-network-analyst-kenny-albert/

New York Rangers · Jul 12, 2025

Top 10 New York Rangers prospects after 2025 NHL Draft, including Gabe Perreault

Wendell Cruz-Imagn ImagesWendell Cruz-Imagn Images

With the 2024-25 season and most recent NHL Draft in the rearview mirror, it’s a good time to update the top 10 prospects in the New York Rangers organization.

The Rangers added eight players to their pipeline, headed by forward Malcolm Spence, their top pick, No. 43 overall, selected in the second round. New York chose five defensemen, two wingers and a center in the 2025 draft. Those eight players represented one less than the Rangers selected in the previous two drafts combined (four in 2024; five in 2023).

They also improved their organizational depth by acquiring center prospect Carey Terrance from the Anaheim Ducks and defenseman prospect Scott Morrow from the Carolina Hurricanes in separate trades this offseason.

We chose a specific criteria here to decide which players are prospects and those who no longer fit that category. If a player’s appeared in at least 25 NHL games or will be at least 24 years old this upcoming season, he’s not considered a prospect for this list.

That’s why you will not see Brennan Othmann (25 NHL games), Brett Berard (35 NHL games), Matthew Robertson (24 years old) nor Brendan Brisson (turns 24 on Oct. 22) on this list.

As a point of reference and comparison, here’s our top 10 Rangers prospects list from 2024.

Related: Rangers 2025 NHL Draft tracker: Selection, analysis for each pick

1. Gabe Perreault (F)

Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

As he was a year ago, Perreault remains the Rangers’ top prospect, though the 20-year-old forward is now a big step closer to a regular spot in the NHL. Perreault is set to embark on his first full professional season; he played five games with the Rangers after turning pro following the end of his sophomore year at Boston College. He had 108 points (35 goals, 73 assists) in 73 games with BC, and helped the United States win consecutive World Junior Championships in 2024 and 2025. Whether the highly skilled forward with an impressive hockey IQ gains some seasoning with Hartford of the American Hockey League or earns a spot on New York’s opening-night roster out of training camp, Perreault appears to be on the verge of his breakthrough.

2. Scott Morrow (D)

James Guillory-Imagn Images

Morrow was somewhat of an underrated acquisition as part of the K’Andre Miller trade July 1. The offensively gifted right-shot defenseman was packaged by Carolina along with a conditional first-round pick and a second rounder in the 2026 draft for Miller. Morrow was Carolina’s third-ranked prospect and No. 65 overall in the Hockey News 2025 Future Watch after a solid rookie pro season with Chicago of the AHL (39 points; 13 goals, 26 assists in 52 games). He’s played 16 regular-season games (one goal, five assists) in the NHL and five Stanley Cup Playoff games. Morrow, who turns 23 in November, is a work in progress defensively and may require a bit more time in the AHL. But offensively, he seems good to go as a puck-moving third-pair d-man.

Related: Scott Morrow ‘going to be really good player’ with Rangers, but there’s catch: NHL insider

3. Malcolm Spence (F)

GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA TODAY NETWORK

By all accounts, Spence is a first-round talent who fell into New York’s lap in the second round. He’s a high-character player and leader who scored 32 goals and had 73 points in 65 games with Erie of the OHL last season. Draft experts project that Spence should have a long NHL career as a a middle-six forward, who will play a committed 200-foot game. Spence will attend the University of Michigan this fall.

4. EJ Emery (D)

Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

Emery was New York’s first-round pick (No. 30 overall) in the 2024 draft and comes off a bit of an up-and-down freshman season at North Dakota. A shutdown right-shot defenseman, Emery averaged 20 minutes TOI in his first NCAA season, but managed just one point, an assist in his first game. The Rangers see a bright future for Emery, but don’t plan on rushing him because they see he needs to fill out physically and grow as a player.

5. Drew Fortescue (D)

Peter Carr/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Fortescue easily could’ve ranked above Emery, because the 2023 third-rounder has had more success to date. He joined Perreault in helping the U.S. win gold at the 2024 and 2025 WJC, playing an important role each tournament as a shutdown defenseman on the left side. He’s also successfully filled that role at Boston College and is set for his junior season there; it’s likely his last — he’s expected to turn pro next spring.

6. Dylan Garand (G)

Photo courtesy Hartford Wolf Pack

The only goalie on this list is set to enter his fourth pro season, all with Hartford of the AHL. Garand emerged as Hartford’s No. 1 goalie last season and was named to the AHL All-Star Classic. He was 20-10-8, with a 2.73 goals-against average, .913 save percentage, and three shutouts, and is on the Rangers’ radar to be Igor Shesterkin’s backup on Broadway, whenever Jonathan Quick retires. The 23-year-old remains an unsigned restricted free agent, but should be in net for Hartford on opening night, tuning up for his eventual ascension to the NHL.

7. Noah Laba (C)

Peter Carr/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The bottom players on this list are tightly packed together. Laba stands out as much for his intangibles as a leader and being a high-character player as he does for his solid two-way play. It’s not difficult to envision Laba filling the role of 3C in New York one day, especially after the soon-to-be 22-year-old impressed last spring with an 11-game cameo (three goals, two assists) with Hartford after turning pro following his junior year at Colorado College.

8. Dylan Roobroeck (C)

Photo courtesy Hartford Wolf Pack

Roobroeck forced his way onto our list of top Rangers prospects this year after an impressive 20-goal season as a 20-year-old with Hartford. The 2023 sixth-round pick stands out immediately because of his size (6-foot-7), but then you keep your eyes on him because he competes, works hard to play an effective two-way game — and can put the puck in the net. Roobroeck had 26 goals and 72 points in 68 games with Oshawa of the OHL in 2023-24, then led Hartford with 20 goals last season, finishing strong with nine goals in his final 12 games.

9. Carey Terrance (C)

Peter Carr/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Rangers landed another solid center prospect when they acquired Terrance from the Ducks in the Chris Kreider trade. He’s not dissimilar to Laba in the fact that he’s a high-character player and leader. Terrance turns pro this coming season and should get plenty of reps in all situations with Hartford. He scored 49 goals the past two seasons combined with Erie of the OHL, where he was teammates with Spence. He also helped the U.S. win gold at the 2025 World Juniors.

10. Adam Sykora (F)

Eric Canha-Imagn Images

Sykora turns 21 in September and is already entering his third pro season with Hartford. The 2022 second-round pick finished fifth on Hartford with 30 points (nine goals, 21 assists) last season. Goals and point production won’t be what gets him into the NHL, though. His tenacious style of play, penalty killing, and pure grind are what stand out with Sykora, who could be a bottom-six forward option in the coming years.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...rospects-after-2025-nhl-draft-gabe-perreault/

New York Rangers · Jul 13, 2025

Former Rangers GM delivers hilarious quip about K’Andre Miller $60 million contract with Hurricanes

Wendell Cruz-Imagn ImagesWendell Cruz-Imagn Images

It’s safe to say that if former New York Rangers general manager Neil Smith was still an NHL executive, there’d be no way he would’ve handed K’Andre Miller as massive a contract as the Carolina Hurricanes did last week.

Miller signed an eight-year, $60 million contract, worth $7.5 million annually, after the Hurricanes acquired him in a July 1 trade with the Rangers. Defenseman Scott Morrow and two 2026 draft picks — a conditional first-rounder and a second-round selection — were acquired by the Rangers in return for the skilled, yet inconsistent 25-year-old.

On his recent NHL Wraparound podcast, Smith sounded incredulous about Miller’s expensive deal when speaking with guest Elliotte Friedman.

“But my goodness, Elliotte, these guys, like I’ve seen K Andre Miller play since he got there (in New York),” Smith ranted. “If he’s a $7 million defenseman, you know, I’m a $10 million podcaster.”

He may have been born and raised in Ontario, but Smith was straight out of New York with that dose of sarcasm.

Friedman, the NHL insider with Sportsnet, was more diplomatic with his take. He pointed out that three RFA defensemen — Miller, Evan Bouchard and Noah Dobson — “benefitted from being free at the right time, and there just wasn’t a lot of players available.”

Bouchard signed a whopping four-year, $42 million extension ($10.5 million AAV) to remain with the Edmonton Oilers last week. And Dobson, a year removed from becoming an unrestricted free agent, let it be known he had no plan to sign with the Islanders long term. So, the Islanders traded Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens for a pair of first-round draft picks and forward Emil Heineman, and Montreal then inked the defenseman to an eight-year, $76 million deal worth $9.5 million annually.

With those prices, it can be argued that Miller was a bargain, though you certainly can’t convince Smith of that. However, even though Smith’s the only one with a Stanley Cup championship on his resume, the opinion that matters most is that of Eric Tulsky, the Hurricanes GM.

“It’s a big price to pay, but we think he’s a great fit for our system,” Tulsky explained. “You hear me talk a lot about how hard our scouting department works to identify players who will fit. He was one of them.”

Related: Rangers GM ‘above board … very professional’ handling K’Andre Miller trade: agent

Neil Smith raised important question about Rangers deal with Vladislav Gavrikov

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

There was one other topic that got Smith riled up on the podcast he co-hosts with Vic Morren.

Tampering.

In reviewing how quickly deals get done immediately after the 12 Noon ET start of free agency on July 1, Smith was again incredulius.

“So I want to ask you and talk to you about another thing that that just drives me nuts,” Smith said Friedman. “Maybe you can explain this to me too, and that is tampering. And you know, [Mitch] Marner, come on, there had to be tampering by Vegas on Marner, and I got to say that, unless Chris Drury is an absolute magician, and he’s like the Evelyn Wood of negotiating — how did he get a deal done in an hour and 15 minutes with Gavrikov?”

To be fair, Smith’s far from the first person to question the ethics and bending of the rules when it comes to NHL free agency. But, again, Friedman had a rational take, at least as far as the Rangers deal with Gavrikov was concerned.

“So, this is another great question,” he said. “But one of the reasons I think the Rangers were able to do Gavrikov so quickly, is I think they were working on a sign and trade with the [Los Angeles] Kings. Now, obviously that didn’t happen, but you know, there’s something for you. I do think a sign and trade nearly happened, so that Gavrikov could get that eighth year.”

Of course, if the sides were working on a sign and trade, there would’ve been interaction allowed between the Rangers and Gavrikov. So, Drury and Co. would know exactly what could work on July 1 even though the early sign and trade fell through.

Ultimately, Gavrikov signed quickly after free agency started, agreeing to a seven-year, $49 million contract with the Rangers, worth $7 million per season. Though the 29-year-old is older than Miller, Bouchard and Dobson, his deal very likely could end up as the best bargain of the day, though time will tell how it looks down the road once Gavrikov plays into his 30s.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...rious-quip-kandre-miller-contract-hurricanes/

New York Rangers · Jul 14, 2025

Why Rangers face major dilemma about Artemi Panarin contract decision

Wendell Cruz-Imagn ImagesWendell Cruz-Imagn Images

New York Rangers general manager Chris Drury has pretty much wrapped up his offseason work. The Rangers changed coaches, firing Peter Laviolette after they missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs and bringing in Mike Sullivan, a two-time Stanley Cup winner with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

New York also signed veteran defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov to play on the left side of the top pair with Adam Fox. And they traded veteran forward Chris Kreider to the Anaheim Ducks and 25-year-old defenseman K’Andre Miller to the Carolina Hurricanes.

Drury also prevented a potential offer-sheet issue by re-signing Will Cuylle, to a two-year contract with an average annual value of $3.9 million.

Now it’s time for the GM to turn his attention to an even bigger issue.

Artemi Panarin is the best free-agent signing in Rangers history. It’s not even close: The Russian left wing, who turns 34 on Oct. 30, has led the Rangers in scoring in each of his six seasons on Broadway since signing a seven-year contract on July 1, 2019. He’s been an NHL First-Team All-Star twice (2020 and 2024) and a Second-Team All-Star once (2023). His 1.28 points per game are the most in team history, and the 120 points he put up in 2023-24 are the second-best single-season total since the Rangers entered the NHL in 1926. His 89 points last season (37 goals, 52 assists) were 27 more than runner-up Mika Zibanejad.

The Rangers have been paying top dollar for all that production – Panarin’s $11.64 million AAV is the seventh-highest in the NHL for 2025-26, and the six players ahead of him are all under 30.

But the pressing issue now is that Panarin can become an unrestricted free agent after next season. “Bread” became eligible to sign an extension on July 1. However, the Rangers don’t appear to be in any rush to get his name on the dotted line.

Drury and owner James Dolan face a real dilemma: Do the Rangers re-sign Panarin, who will be 35 less than a month into any new contract – and if so, for how much and how long? Do the Rangers trade him, either before the season or prior to the NHL Trade Deadline in March if it becomes apparent that they’re not going to make the playoffs? Or do they let things play out, see what kind of numbers Panarin puts up and whether the Blueshirts return to the playoffs before making a decision – risking the possibility of getting nothing if he walks?

Related: Neil Smith delivers hilarious quip about K’Andre Miller $60 million contract with Hurricanes

Rangers options moving forward with Artemi Panarin
1. Rangers could re-sign Artemi Panarin

The Rangers face two immediate issues if they opt for this alternative: Salary and term.

Drury addressed the issue with the media earlier this month but wouldn’t comment on whether he and Panarin’s camp have started extension talks. They could sign him before camp or some time during the season, which is how they handled Igor Shesterkin a year ago.

Failing to re-sign Panarin could be extremely costly for a team that relies on him for a large chunk of its offense. But does Drury want to make an early commitment to a player whose production figures to drop off at some point — whether it’s 2025-26 or sometime in the coming years? Especially if the Rangers remain hopeful that a younger UFA stud like, oh say, Connor McDavid, Kirill Kaprizov or Jack Eichel hits the open market next summer.

And don’t forget, as much as the Rangers want you to, that Panarin and MSG Sports each paid a financial settlement with a former employee who accused the star wing of sexual assault.

Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

So, faced with declining production in coming years and this other unseemly fact, the Rangers must make a very difficult decision with Panarin. Salary and term. And what does Panarin expect in each category, will go a long way to forcing the Rangers hand one way or the other.

2. Rangers could deal Artemi Panarin before season or prior to NHL Trade Deadline

If the Rangers decide not to lock up Panarin, they’ll have to decide whether to let him play out his contract or trade him.

The second option won’t be easy. Panarin has a full no-move clause, meaning that he can’t be traded or sent to the minors without his approval. The only way the Rangers could get rid of Panarin without his OK is to put him on waivers, as they did with forward Barclay Goodrow last summer. Goodrow, who excelled in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs after a disappointing regular season, was snapped up by the League’s worst team, the San Jose Sharks, who had been on his “don’t send me there” list – and neither he nor his suddenly ex-teammates were happy about it.

So, not only does Drury not want to ruffle feathers by pulling that same move with Panarin — who is only 1,000 times the player Goodrow is — the Rangers couldn’t afford to just ship him away like that and not receive a single asset in return.

Drury again angered several veterans by basically forcing captain Jacob Trouba to accept a trade – he agreed to go to Anaheim in early December only after he was threatened with waivers and a demotion to Hartford of the American Hockey League. But the Rangers GM showed he might have learned something by keeping Kreider and his camp in the loop before the trade to the Ducks, then doing the same before sending Miller to Carolina earlier this month.

The trade deadline scenario has two possibilities. If the Rangers rebound from 2024-25 and own a playoff berth or are close to one, it’s hard to imagine a deadline deal. But if it’s looking like they’ll miss the postseason again, there figures to be a market for Panarin from contending teams that think a high-scoring left wing would be just what they need to make a long playoff run.

Panarin would still have the final say-so, but he might be more willing to move to a team poised to chase the Cup – and perhaps find himself a new home in the process. However, navigating his massive salary-cap hit makes this a very difficult option.

The Winnipeg Jets are the only playoff team from last season projected to have the cap room to fit Panarin’s salary, according to Puckpedia and it’s hard to see Panarin wanting to go to a rebuilding team.

3. Rangers can let season play out, then decide on Artemi Panarin

This definitely has the potential to be the riskiest option for Drury and the Rangers.

Suppose Panarin has another season with 90-100 points – something that would be in line with his Rangers point-per-game average if he plays 80 games. Depending on whether the Rangers make the postseason and how far they go, Drury could be facing a small window of opportunity to re-sign the franchise’s best offensive player of the 21st century.

Trying to sign a potential free agent who’s done nothing but pile up points for seven straight seasons may not be easy. Another big season by Panarin figures to drive up his contract demands – and with the salary cap set to rise to $104 million in 2026-27 from $95.5 million this coming season, even an almost-35-year-old figures to come away with a sizeable new contract.

#NYR Artemi Panarin turns 34 in October but he hasn't shown any signs of decline. He scored or was on pace for 90+ points every season since the 2018-19. And before the last season, his Power Score was $10.7m-9m-12.6m

4 years and ~$10m Cap Hit would be a good extension https://t.co/Fpjezsbj6h pic.twitter.com/cy7BVKZTbv

— Benchrates (@benchrates) July 12, 2025

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The Rangers could find themselves in the same situation the Toronto Maple Leafs did as free agency neared this year, stuck with an elite player like high-scoring forward Mitch Marner, who wasn’t going to return and decided that he knew where he wanted to go.

The Maple Leafs wound up doing a sign-and-trade that sent Marner (and a new eight-year, $96 million contract) to the Vegas Golden Knights for bottom-six forward Nicholas Roy. He’s a useful player – but nowhere near Marner’s value.

An offshoot of that nightmare would be if Panarin signed with another team without a deal being worked out ahead of time. The Rangers do not want to end up like the Islanders in the summer of 2018, when they got nothing after their best player, center John Tavares, signed with the Maple Leafs.

4. So what’s likeliest Rangers scenario with Artemi Panarin?

In late May, colleague Tom Castro made the case that the Rangers should keep Panarin for the upcoming season but not re-sign him for 2026-27. His biggest argument is that Panarin hasn’t been able to replicate his regular-season success in the postseason (35 points in 46 playoff games with the Rangers; .76 points per game).

With a number of top stars also entering the final years of their contracts, Tom raised the valid point that the Rangers might want to keep enough cap room to make a run at McDavid, Eichel, or Kaprizov next summer.

NHL free agents in 2026:
Connor McDavid
Kirill Kaprizov
Jack Eichel
Cale Makar
Artemi Panarin
Kyle Connor
Adrian Kempe
Alex Tuch
Rasmus Andersson
Filip Gustavsson
Jake Walman
Patrick Kane
Sergei Bobrovsky
John Carlson
Anze Kopitar

Will this be the best free agency of all time? pic.twitter.com/y3Ta0TS1O4

— BoltsFanatix️(Rays szn) (@bhags38) July 13, 2025

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It’s also hard to see the Rangers returning to the playoffs without Panarin or a suitable replacement – if Drury could find one. So, it’d appear he’s definitely in for next season and other factors will help the Rangers decide on his future.

Panarin has served as the cornerstone of the Rangers rebuild, one that has seen them win the Presidents’ Trophy in 2024 and reach Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final in 2022 and 2024. The question they have to decide is whether the relationship is nearing an end.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...jor-dilemma-artemi-panarin-contract-decision/

New York Rangers · Tuesday at 5:51 AM

Mike Sullivan, Rangers to open 2025-26 NHL season against Penguins on ESPN

James Guillory-Imagn ImagesJames Guillory-Imagn Images

Mike Sullivan won’t have to wait long to be behind the New York Rangers bench and coach against his former team. Sullivan officially begins his tenure as Rangers coach Oct. 7 when they open the 2025-26 season at home against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Madison Square Garden.

The game will be televised on nationally on ESPN and the puck drops on the new season at 8 p.m. ET. The Rangers opened the 2024-25 season a year ago with a 6-0 win against the Penguins in Pittsburgh.

Counting down the days. pic.twitter.com/Mopf1xO9ro

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) July 14, 2025

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Sullivan mutually parted ways with the Penguins early this offseason and subsequently was hired by the Rangers to be the 38th coach in franchise history. He replaced Peter Laviolette, who was fired after two seasons when the Rangers failed to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs this past season after winning the Presidents’ Trophy in 2023-24.

“I’m so appreciative of the opportunity that I had there,” Sullivan said about his time coaching the Penguins. “I’m grateful to everyone involved, most specifically the players there, who played extremely hard in the years that I was there.”

“Sully” spent the previous 10 seasons with the Penguins and guided them to Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017, his first two seasons behind their bench. The 57-year-old is the coaching wins leader in Penguins history with a record of 409-255-89, and the 14th coach in NHL history to win 400 games with one team.

However, the Penguins missed the playoffs for the third straight season in 2024-25, and their 80 points were the fewest in any full season since Sidney Crosby’s rookie year in 2005-06. Like the Rangers, the Penguins were at or near the bottom of the League in most defensive metrics this season.

“We had some successes there during my time, and I have that experience to draw on, what that looks like,” Sullivan explained. “We also had disappointments. It’s hard to win in this league, it takes more than talent, and we had a lot of talent with that group in Pittsburgh, and we experienced both sides.”

Related: Top 10 New York Rangers prospects after 2025 NHL Draft, including Gabe Perreault

Reunion will take place when Rangers host Penguins on opening night

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Crosby remains a staunch supporter of Sullivan, so it will be an emotional reunion of sorts — one that’ll include Penguins longtime stars Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang — at the season opener for each team.

The reunion will extend beyond the Stanley Cup winners. Assistants David Quinn and Ty Hennes remain on Sullivan’s staff in New York after serving under him in Pittsburgh. And former Rangers assistant Dan Muse will be behind the Penguins bench for his first game as an NHL coach, after he was hired to replace Sullivan on June 4.

Though more roster changes could take place this summer, the Rangers will have at least one new player in the lineup opening night. Defenseman Vladisalv Gavrikov signed a seven-year, $49 million contract in NHL free agency and will be in the top four of the Rangers defense corps.

Rookie defenseman Scott Morrow and bottom-six forward Taylor Raddysh could also be newcomers in the Rangers lineup Oct. 7 against the Penguins.

Pittsburgh could have at least three new players: forward Anthony Mantha, defenseman Matt Dumba and goalie Arturs Silovs.

The complete Rangers schedule will be released on Wednesday, July 16.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/mike-sullivan-open-nhl-seasont-penguins/

New York Rangers · Tuesday at 5:56 PM

Rangers prospect boosted by famous uncle Sergei Gonchar: ‘he sees potential in me’

For most of his 20-year NHL career, Sergei Gonchar was a thorn in the side of the New York Rangers. But now in retirement, the highly-skilled former defenseman might be able to help the Rangers out, thanks to a recent development at the 2025 NHL Draft.

The Rangers selected Gonchar’s nephew, Artyom Gonchar, in the third round (No. 89 overall). And by listening to the younger Gonchar, it’s clear what a big influence his uncle plays in his burgeoning hockey career.

“He always supports me and says he sees potential in me. He never puts any limits on me,” Artyom explained in a recent translated interview in his native Russia. “The fact that such a great figure in the hockey world praises my game really boosts my confidence.”

Like his uncle, Artyom is a defenseman. Of course, he — and the Rangers — can only hope some of Sergei’s greatness and success rubs off on the 18-year-old.

With the 89th pick at the 2025 NHL Draft, #NYR are proud to select Artyom Gonchar. pic.twitter.com/JGiJ0np6Fm

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) June 28, 2025

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Sergei Gonchar recorded 811 points (220 goals, 591 assists) in 1,301 NHL games, more than any other Russia-born defenseman in League history. Sergei Zubov, who helped the Rangers win the Stanley Cup in 1994 and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2019, is second on that list with 771 points, after playing with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Dallas Stars and Blueshirts.

Gonchar also helped the Penguins win the Stanley Cup in 2009.

Artyom Gonchar is pretty gifted offensively, too. He put together a solid season in Russia’s top junior league last season, leading all defensemen on Stalyne Lisy with 25 points (seven goals, 18 assists) in 50 games. After he was picked by the Rangers, Gonchar elected to enter the CHL Import Draft, where he was selected by Sudbury. Gonchar will make his North American debut playing major Canadian junior hockey this fall.

“Artem is a player that we have been high on from this past season,” Sudbury general manager Rob Papineau explained. “He is a very intelligent smooth skating defenseman who was just selected in the third round in the NHL. He has great vision and offensive instincts and is a skilled playmaker.”

That sounds a but like his uncle.

Related: Why Rangers believe EJ Emery ‘on great path’ with development ahead of sophomore season at North Dakota

Rangers prospect says ‘my uncle gets me stronger’ with late-night chats

Via @artemgonchar09 on IG

Late-night calls with his famous uncle, a development coach with the Vancouver Canucks, were routine for Artyom last season. After nearly every game, he’d ring up his uncle from Magnitogorsk around 10 p.m. local time, knowing Sergei would be there to help.

“We’d call after each of my games and go over my mistakes: what I did well and what I didn’t,” Artyom explained.

“My uncle helps me get stronger. Ever since I joined Stalnye Lisy, we started talking more about my game.”

Listed as 6-foot-1 and 165 pounds, Artyom has plenty of filling out to be the size of Sergei, who was 6-foot-2 and 210 pounds in his playing days.

Via @artemgonchar09 on IG

During the 2024-25 campaign, Artyom added roughly 15 pounds of muscle while continuing to log heavy minutes on the ice. He spent much of his time away from the rink in the gym, focusing on strength and conditioning with the target of reaching 180 pounds to match his physical style of play.

He also worked with defense coach Viktor Postnikov, who dedicated extra time in the summer to focus on Artyom’s shot. Together, they fine-tuned his power, release timing, and shot accuracy to give him more confidence from the point.

“I like a physical style of hockey — I enjoy hitting and closing in on opponents,” Artyom said. “I know how to deliver body checks even without a lot of weight, but always according to the situation. The main thing is to keep possession of the puck.”

That sounds like it could be a direct take from his uncle’s playbook. The Rangers certainly can hope these will all be lessons well learned.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/artyom-sergei-gonchar-prospect-advice/

New York Rangers · Wednesday at 5:57 AM

Why Rangers believe EJ Emery ‘on great path’ with development ahead of sophomore season at North Dakota

Jim Cerny

If the New York Rangers have any concern that E.J. Emery managed just one point during his freshman season at Nork Dakota, they’re certainly not letting on.

Sure, they’d love to see more production from their 2024 first-round pick (30th overall), who picked up an assist in his first collegiate game and no points thereafter. But in the Rangers opinion, there’s plenty to like about the stay-at-home defenseman’s overall game last season.

“He had a really good year,” Rangers director of player development Jed Ortmeyer said at the beginning of July. “He’s one of the youngest defensemen in college hockey as a true freshman. It’s a tough league (NCHC) he was playing in and he was able to go there, step in and have a big role, play big minutes for them. I think his development is headed in the right direction, he’s on a great path. He’s at a great school and we’re excited about what he’s doing and where he’s going.”

The 19-year-old appeared in 31 games in his first NCAA season, averaged roughly 20 minutes TOI, and finished sixth on the team with 29 blocked shots. He missed seven games, six due to a lower-body injury and one after he was suspended for a late-game incident with top Minnesota Wild prospect Zeev Buium of Denver on Feb. 15.

Emery was also among the final cuts by the United States before they won the 2025 World Junior Championship last December. Three other Rangers prospects — Gabe Perreault, Drew Fortescue and Carey Terrance — were on that team.

Expectations are high that Emery will make the 2026 U.S. squad for the World Juniors, especially with several key players from a stacked roster having aged out of the tournament. Emery is among 42 players (14 defensemen) invited to play for the United States at the 2025 World Junior Showcase from July 25 – August 2 in Minneapolis.

And don’t expect the youngster to hang his head or lose confidence about being the first NHL Draft pick in NCAA history to record just a single point in a season.

“It just shows that I’ve got something to work on,” Emery said at Rangers development camp. “You always want something to work, to get better.”

Related: Top 10 New York Rangers prospects after 2025 NHL Draft, including E.J. Emery

No ‘timeline’ for E.J. Emery to make jump to NHL with Rangers

Emery told reporters in early July that he added 10 pounds of muscle to his wiry (6-foot-3, 185 pounds) frame. Rangers officials said when they drafted Emery that he needed to fill out and hone his all-around game. John Lilley, New York’s director of player personnel, emphasized at the time that the Rangers would not rush Emery and his development.

That continues to be the game plan. So, don’t expect to see a major push for Emery to join the Rangers blue line just yet.

“I can’t put a timeline on it, everyone develops at their own pace,” Ortmeyer explained. “For him, filling out and growing into his body — he’s put a lot of work in, he’s got a nutritionist — just to make sure he’s developing as best as he can, as fast as he can. He’s great to work with, eager to get better. He’s in a great situation there at North Dakota.”

Emery echoed those sentiments. He’s more concerned about trying to win the NCAA National Championship with North Dakota then breaking into the NHL any time soon.

“I realized I’ve got to get bigger and stronger because when you’re playing against 25-year-olds, it’s a man’s game,” Emery explained.

A right-shot defenseman, Emery can look up at Adam Fox, Will Borgen, Braden Schneider and Scott Morrow on that side of the Rangers depth chart. Things can change quickly, of course. Heck, even stud d-man Vladislav Gavrikov, a top-four lefty shooter, can play on his off side.

So, that’s to say, there’s no rush for Emery to turn pro. He could sign an entry-level contract next spring or remain in school, which is what Fortescue, another shutdown defenseman prospect, did heading back to Boston College this season for his junior year.

By the sounds of it, the Rangers remain bullish on their top pick from a year ago, no matter how many — or how few — points he accumulates.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...reat-path-development-sophomore-north-dakota/

New York Rangers · Wednesday at 6:03 PM

Rangers 2025-26 NHL schedule includes outdoor game, longest homestand, road trip since 2021

Danny Wild-Imagn ImagesDanny Wild-Imagn Images

The New York Rangers will play their sixth outdoor game during the 2025-26 season, as well as their longest homestand and road trip in five years.

The NHL released its full schedule for the upcoming season Wednesday, though Rangers fans already knew that the Blueshirts’ season opener was set for Oct. 7, with the Pittsburgh Penguins coming to Madison Square Garden to face their old coach, Mike Sullivan, who’s now behind the bench for the Rangers.

They’ll begin 2026 by trying to extend their perfect outdoor record when they face the Florida Panthers in the 2026 Winter Classic at LoanDepot Park in Miami on Jan. 2. The Rangers are 5-0-0 outdoors, with the most recent win coming against the New York Islanders on Feb. 18, 2024, a 6-5 overtime victory at Met Life Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The full 2025-26 #NYR Schedule: pic.twitter.com/zB0HrGMCv7

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) July 16, 2025

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That game is the finale of a six-game road trip, the Rangers’ longest since 2021. They also have a late-season seven-game homestand that is their longest in five years.

Here are some of the highlights of the Rangers’ 2025-26 schedule:

Mike Sullivan makes quick return to Pittsburgh with Rangers

Peter Carr/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Rangers new coach won’t have to wait long to return to the city where he coached back-to-back Stanley Cup champions in 2016 and 2017. After making his debut with the Rangers against the Penguins as part of the NHL opening-night tripleheader, Sullivan and the Blueshirts will visit PPG Paints Arena four nights later, on Oct. 11.

It will be interesting to see what kind of reaction Sullivan gets from the fans who used to cheer him. He left the Penguins after they missed the playoffs in each of the past three seasons, and there didn’t appear to be a lot of regret on either side when he and the Penguins parted ways after 10 seasons.

Ironically, he’ll be coaching against a former Rangers assistant. Dan Muse, who wasn’t fired when the Rangers axed Peter Laviolette after missing the playoffs last season, was named as Sullivan’s replacement.

Rangers on road for holidays (and beyond)

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Rangers haven’t had a six-game road trip since March 2021, and even that one gets an asterisk because they only visited three cities (Newark, Pittsburgh and Boston), playing back-to-back games in each during the COVID-shortened season.

That won’t be the case when they head to Nashville for a Sunday night contest on Dec. 21. They go to Washington two nights later to play the Capitals (their sixth game in nine nights), then resume play after the Christmas break by visiting the Islanders on Dec. 27, followed by trips to Carolina and Washington before the Winter Classic against the defending Stanley Cup champion Panthers on the first Friday of the new year.

In all, the Rangers will spend more than two weeks away from the Garden; they host the Philadelphia Flyers on Dec. 20 and aren’t home again until the Utah Mammoth come to town on Jan. 5.

Aside from this six-game trip, the Rangers have no road swing longer than a four-game, seven-day swing through Western Canada and Seattle from Oct. 26 through Nov. 1.

Rangers to get late-season home cooking …

Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

2021 was also the last time the Rangers had a homestand of more than five games. That will change this season, when they play seven in a row at the Garden from March 27 through April 8.

This figures to be a chance for the Rangers to pile up some points. Three of the seven teams they face on the homestand missed the playoffs last season, and two more lost their opening-round series in five games. Only the Panthers (March 29) and Capitals (April 5) made it past the first round.

Stretch things out a bit more and the Rangers will enjoy one of the longest home-dominant stretches in their history. Beginning with a visit from the Los Angeles Kings on March 16, the Rangers play 11 of 13 games at the Garden, with the only road games against the Columbus Blue Jackets (March 19) and Toronto Maple Leafs (March 25).

… but a tough finish

Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

After all that time at home, the Rangers finish their season with a nasty three-game road trip.

The Blueshirts make their only trip of the season to Dallas on April 11 to face the Stars, who’ve gotten as far as the Western Conference Final in each of the past three seasons. Two nights later, they visit the Panthers in Sunrise, Florida, then conclude the regular season against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Amalie Arena on April 15.

That’s two games against Final Four teams before one against a club coming off a 102-point season and eight straight playoff appearances. Not the ideal way to end a season – especially if you need points to make the playoffs.

A dozen back-to-backs, including a rarity

Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

The Rangers play 12 sets of back-to-back games, beginning on the first weekend of the season – their trip to Pittsburgh on Oct. 11 is followed by a visit by the Capitals one night later.

Four of the back-to-backs involve consecutive home games – two come in a 10-day span in December, the others are in late March and early April. Only one set features consecutive road games: The Rangers visit the Anaheim Ducks on Jan. 18 and the Kings on the 19th.

But the most intriguing back-to-back involves the Rangers and Islanders, who face off at UBS Arena on Jan. 28 and at the Garden on Jan. 29. It’s the first time the Rangers will face their archrivals on consecutive days since April 3-4, 2008, when the teams split road victories – the Blueshirts won 3-0 at Nassau Coliseum before losing 4-3 in a shootout at MSG one night later.

A back-to-back that will see the Rangers visit the Philadelphia Flyers on March 9 and host the Calgary Flames on March 10 begins what figures to be a brutal month for New York. The Blueshirts will play 13 times in the final 22 days of March, including three back-to-backs, and 16 times in the from March 2-31.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...025-26-nhl-schedule-takeaways-winter-classic/

New York Rangers · Thursday at 6:51 AM

Former Rangers goalie, minor-league coach Wayne Thomas dies at age 77

Wendell Cruz-Imagn ImagesWendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Wayne Thomas, who played his final four NHL seasons with the New York Rangers and later served as their goaltending coach before leading their Salt Lake City farm team to the International Hockey League championship, died at age 77.

The San Jose Sharks, for whom Thomas worked for more than 20 years, confirmed that the team learned of Thomas’ death Wednesday from his family. A team spokesman said he died at his home in Falmouth, Massachusetts, after a battle with cancer.

Thomas arrived in the NHL with the Montreal Canadiens in 1972-73, one year after leading their Nova Scotia farm team to the Calder Cup championship in the American Hockey League. He played parts of two seasons with Montreal and two full seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs – earning the victory in the 1976 NHL All-Star Game.

We join the Sharks and hockey community in mourning the passing of Rangers alum Wayne Thomas. We are thinking of Wayne’s friends and loved ones during this difficult time. https://t.co/u0ND8Hgtfs

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) July 16, 2025

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But the emergence of Mike Palmateer as Toronto’s new No. 1 in net made Thomas expendable, and the Rangers claimed him on waivers before the start of the 1977-78 season.

The Rangers planned to use Thomas as the backup to John Davidson. But when Davidson got hurt, Thomas wound up playing 41 games, posting a 12-20 record with seven ties, a 3.60 goals-against average and four shutouts.

His lone winning season with the Rangers came in 1978-79, when he was 15-10 with three ties, finishing with a 3.64 goals-against average and a save percentage of .866. He lost his only start in the playoffs that spring, serving as the backup to Davidson, whose play carried the Rangers to the Stanley Cup Final; they lost to the Canadiens in five games.

WATCH: Complete Forever Blueshirts interview with former Rangers great Don Maloney

Wayne Thomas, Rangers goalie and minor-league coach, dies at 77

The Ottawa native saw limited action during the next two seasons before retiring as a player in January 1981. He played 94 games during his four seasons in New York, and was 34-43 with 11 ties, a 3.64 GAA, a save percentage of .875 and five shutouts. In his eight NHL seasons, he was 103-93 with 34 ties, a 3.34 GAA, .891 save percentage and 10 shutouts.

Thomas’ last game for the Rangers was on Jan. 11, 1981, a 5-3 loss to Toronto at Madison Square Garden – and by the end of the month, he had been named their goaltending coach, one of the first in the NHL.

READ MORE: How Rangers missed Glen Sather, ‘senior voice to calm things down’ during epic 2024-25 failure

He remained in that role until the end of the 1984-85 season, when he was named coach of the Salt Lake City Golden Eagles of the IHL, a Rangers minor league affiliate. Thomas coached Salt Lake to the Turner Cup championship in his second season with the team. He was awarded the Commissioner’s Trophy as the IHL Coach of the Year.

His success in the minors brought him back to the NHL in the fall of 1987 as an assistant with the Chicago Blackhawks, where he worked with future Hockey Hall of Famer Ed Belfour. Thomas later joined the St. Louis Blues in the same role to work with another talented young goaltender, Curtis Joseph.

The NHL Alumni Association is deeply saddened to learn that Wayne Thomas has passed away at the age of 77.

A native of Ottawa, Ontario, Wayne played junior hockey for his hometown Ottawa Capitals of the Central Canada Hockey League before playing three seasons of collegiate… pic.twitter.com/SdHOOuWEno

— NHL Alumni (@NHLAlumni) July 16, 2025

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Thomas moved to the Sharks in 1993 as both an assistant coach and an assistant to the general manager. He stayed with the team for 22 seasons and retired in 2015 as an assistant GM and vice president. In all, he spent 45 years in professional hockey.

For all his success as an executive, Thomas’ core passion was his daily work on and off the ice with NHL goaltenders throughout his coaching career. He continued fruitful relationships with many of them until his passing.

“During the last 17 years of Wayne’s life, his greatest joy and love was his grandchildren,” the Sharks said in a statement. “He was overjoyed to attend every activity, concert, play, and sporting event and was an active participant in their growth and development.”

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/wayne-thomas-dies-age-77-nhl-goalie/

New York Rangers · Thursday at 7:03 PM

‘Grateful’ former Rangers defenseman pens heartfelt message after trade to Hurricanes

James Guillory-Imagn ImagesJames Guillory-Imagn Images

Two weeks after the New York Rangers traded him to the Carolina Hurricanes, K’Andre Miller posted a classy heartfelt message to the team and its fans on social media Thursday.

His Instagram post began by addressing the Blueshirts Faithful.

“To the Rangers fans — I’ll miss the roar of the crowd and the ‘Let’s Go Rangers’ chants that will forever echo in my mind. Your fandom is second to none.”

After thanking “the workers at MSG” and “first responders around the Garden,” Miller turned his attention to his former teammates, coaches and staff.

“To my teammates — Thank you for your support and lessons along the way. You made me a better player and person. Grateful.”

K’Andre Miller says goodbye to #NYR

: @ kandre.miller via Instagram pic.twitter.com/VV4scUQ7TU

— Mollie Walker (@MollieeWalkerr) July 17, 2025

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Though he didn’t name anyone specifically, Miller was especially close to his former defense partner Jacob Trouba, who was traded last season to the Anaheim Ducks.

“To the Rangers coaches, trainers and support staff — thank you for teaching me, caring for me, and helping me. Most appreciated.”

He then singled out Rangers general manager Chris Drury and team owner James Dolan.

“Thank you for giving me my start and allowing me to live out my dream in the greatest arena in the world. Thank you.”

Related: Rangers GM ‘above board … very professional’ handling K’Andre Miller trade: agent

K’Andre Miller thanks Rangers, fans in classy farewell message

Danny Wild-Imagn Images

The 25-year-old defenseman played five seasons with the Rangers, who selected him with the No. 22 overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft. He was traded July 1 to the Hurricanes for defenseman Scott Morrow and two premium picks in the 2026 draft — a conditional first-rounder and a second-round selection.

In the sign-and-trade deal, Miller agreed to an eight-year, $60 million contract ($7.5 million average annual value) with Carolina.

That was a deal Miller wasn’t going to get from the Rangers. Drury deemed Miller too inconsistent and mistake prone, and wasn’t comfortable investing significant term and money in the top-four defenseman.

Back on breakup day in April, Miller expressed his desire to remain in New York. He was a restricted free agent with arbitration rights, two years away from becoming unrestricted. In other words, it was time for the Rangers to make a massive decision with him.

Despite Miller’s wishes, the Rangers opted to sign Vladislav Gavrikov to a seven-year, $49 million contract in free agency and then trade Miller to a division rival.

Despite that, Miller exited in a classy manner, making sure to touch all the bases in his Instagram farewell message.

“Peace out NYC. Stay safe. Until we meet again.”

That next meeting will be Tuesday, Nov. 4, when the Hurricanes come to Madison Square Garden in one of the must-see games on the Rangers’ 2025-26 schedule.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...heartfelt-instagram-message-trade-hurricanes/

New York Rangers · Friday at 7:06 AM

10 can’t-miss games on the Rangers 2025-26 NHL schedule

Wendell Cruz-Imagn ImagesWendell Cruz-Imagn Images

We’re already a month into summer, which means the countdown to October is underway for the New York Rangers. The 100th season in franchise history will kick off on Oct. 7 at home against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

The Rangers aim to return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs after becoming just the fourth team in NHL history to miss the postseason the year after winning the Presidents’ Trophy. They continue the chase for their first Stanley Cup championship since 1994, and just the second since 1940.

With the release of the 2025-26 NHL schedule on Wednesday, let’s take a look at 10 of the most anticipated games during the upcoming season.

The full 2025-26 #NYR Schedule: pic.twitter.com/zB0HrGMCv7

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) July 16, 2025

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Related: How Rangers missed Glen Sather, ‘senior voice to calm things down’ during epic 2024-25 failure

Oct. 11 — at Pittsburgh Penguins

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

No coach in Pittsburgh Penguins history has won more games (409) nor coached more (753) than Mike Sullivan. However, after 10 years in the Steel City — and four days after coaching his first game with the Rangers by facing his old team — Sullivan returns to PPG Paints Arena. He led the Penguins to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017, but he and the Penguins parted ways on April 28 after Pittsburgh’s third straight non-playoff season — and the Rangers hired him on May 2. Future Hall of Famers Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang thrived under his guidance. Sullivan left a lasting legacy in Pittsburgh and will surely receive an emotional tribute.

Oct. 28 — at Vancouver Canucks

Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

This is a late-night game for Rangers fans on the East Coast, but one they should certainly stay up for. After six seasons with the Canucks, JT Miller returns to Rogers Arena as a visitor for the first time since he was traded to the Rangers on Jan. 31. Miller played a key role in the Canucks’ 2024 playoff run, their best season since 2011. A public feud between Elias Pettersson and Miller reached a point where one had to be traded, and it’ll be interesting to see how the two react to playing against one another. Despite the controversy, Miller should receive a warm welcome in his first game back in Vancouver.

Nov. 4 — vs. Carolina Hurricanes

Danny Wild-Imagn Images

The Rangers were officially eliminated from playoff contention in Game 80 last season, an embarrassing 7-3 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, who themselves went on to pplay in the Eastern Conference Final last spring. Now, the ‘Canes come to MSG for the first of four matchups between the Metropolitan Division rivals — and the first since the Rangers traded K’Andre Miller to the Hurricanes on July 1 after five seasons in New York. The Hurricanes wasted little time signing the 25-year-old defenseman to an eight-year, $60 million contract ($7.5 million average annual value). It will be interesting to see what kind of greeting Miller gets in his return to the Garden, and if 22-year-old defenseman Scott Morrow — part of the package for Miller — is in the Rangers lineup.

Nov. 8 — vs. New York Islanders

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Four nights after Miller’s return, the Islanders come to MSG for the first of four games in the Battle of New York. To add a little spice to one of the biggest NHL rivalries, Matthew Schaefer, taken by the Isles with the No. 1 overall pick in the NHL Draft last month, wasted little time telling the world which team he’s most looking forward to playing against. “I’m saying Rangers. I heard there’s a big rivalry,” Schaefer said. “I want to play against the Rangers, and I want to beat them every time we play them.” Assuming Schaefer sticks with the Islanders after training camp, the 18-year-old defenseman will not get a warm welcome in his first appearance at The Garden. On top of that, the Islanders have a score to settle after they were swept and manhandled by the Rangers last season.

Nov. 28 — at Boston Bruins

Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

The Rangers return to the Thanksgiving Showdown when they visit the Boston Bruins on Black Friday afternoon. Each team is trying to return to the playoffs; Boston missed the postseason last season for the first time since 2015-16. The Rangers will be trying to repeat the success they had in their last Thanksgiving Showdown visit to TD Garden — they downed the Bruins 5-2 in Boston on Nov 26, 2021, largely thanks to a 34-save effort by the game’s First Star, goalie Igor Shesterkin.

Dec. 15 — vs Anaheim Ducks

Danny Wild-Imagn Images

A regular-season game against the Anaheim Ducks isn’t usually a highlight on the Rangers schedule. But the return of Jacob Trouba and Chris Kreider figures to make this matchup truly memorable. The former captain’s first MSG appearance after his trade last Dec. 6 will have the crowd buzzing following his tension-filled exit. Adding Kreider to the mix after his June 12 trade to Anaheim adds a whole new element. After 13 years and 324 goals with the Rangers, the fan favorite will face off against his former team in a building where he made lasting memories. Fans will wear their No. 20 jerseys in what should be an emotional homecoming.

Dec. 16 — vs. Vancouver Canucks

Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

There’s another homecoming on tap the next night at Madison Square Garden. Popular center Filip Chytil, who was traded to the Canucks as part of the Miller deal, could play his first game as a member of a visiting team at MSG. Chytil sustained a concussion before the Canucks visited MSG last season and was plagued by injuries during his time with the Rangers. It has been a rough road for the Czech center, but he should receive a warm welcome when he steps onto the ice.

Jan. 2 — at Florida Panthers

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The Rangers will ring in 2026 outdoors with the Winter Classic against the two-time defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers in the first of their three meetings this season. The first NHL outdoor game in the Sunshine State is scheduled to take place at loanDepot Park, home of the Miami Marlins. New York’s perfect 5-0-0 outdoor record will be put to the test. Rangers’ road games at the Panthers’ home, Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise, Florida, are always packed with Blueshirts faithful, and there’s expected to be a large contingent of snowbirds and holiday vacationers ready for sun, fun and hockey to celebrate the new year.

Jan. 12 — vs. Seattle Kraken

Bob Frid-Imagn Images

There will be yet another homecoming when the Seattle Kraken pay their only visit of the season to the Garden. Forward Kaapo Kakko and defenseman Ryan Lindgren will return to MSG for the first time after being traded last season. Kakko went to the Kraken just before Christmas; Lindgren was dealt to the Colorado Avalanche on March 1, then signed with Seattle as a free agent four months later. Kakko never lived up to the high expectations that came with being the No. 2 pick in the 2019 draft. Lindgren spent much of his time in New York on the top defensive pairing with Adam Fox, a heart-and-soul player who sacrificed his body every game. Each is expected to be welcomed back warmly.

March 31 — vs. New Jersey Devils

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

All three games in the 2025-26 edition of the Hudson River Rivalry will take place after the NHL Trade Deadline on March 6. The Rangers go to Newark the day after the deadline, then host the Devils twice in a span of 13 days. The Rangers were 1-3-0 against the Devils last season, getting outscored 16-4 and shut out twice. With the season winding down, it will be fascinating to see where each team is headed entering the final month.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...mes-on-new-york-rangers-2025-26-nhl-schedule/

New York Rangers · Friday at 7:14 PM

WATCH: 5 funny videos posted at Rangers expense during 2025-26 NHL team schedule releases

Via @BuffaloSabres on X

The NHL released its full 2025-26 schedule on Wednesday, and social media teams from many clubs found creative ways to make their announcements stand out. Several leaned into current pop culture trends, and used well-placed jabs — especially at the New York Rangers.

Teams treated it like a mini content competition, using mascots, skits, and viral trends to draw attention on social media.

This year, a handful of organizations found clever ways to work the Rangers into their videos — some with bar jokes, dodgeballs, and even a grainy chicken wing. Whether it was trolling or just having some fun at New York’s expense, the Rangers became one of the most talked about teams of the day, without even posting a video themselves.

Related: 10 can’t-miss games on the Rangers 2025-26 NHL schedule

5 videos poking fun at Rangers during 2025-26 NHL team schedule releases

Let’s break down the five best shots taken at the Rangers:

1. Buffalo Sabres — Lights, (security) camera, action

The Buffalo Sabres used chicken wings to represent each opponent on their schedule video, all shot in high-def. Except one.

The Rangers wing was shown in grainy CCTV footage, a not-so-subtle jab at New York’s social media situation, which sparked plenty of speculations from fans last season. After an internal incident, the Rangers reportedly banned their content staff from traveling to road games and going to restricted access ares, leaving them to post actual arena cam clips.

Suboptimal, making the Rangers an easy target for the creative folk in Buffalo.

2/8 #LetsGoBuffalo | @Ticketmaster pic.twitter.com/kbrzb4kyB4

— Buffalo Sabres (@BuffaloSabres) July 15, 2025

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2. New Jersey Devils — Dodgeball drama

The New Jersey Devils opened their schedule video with a dodgeball game between NJ Devil and a group of kids wearing NHL team shirts. After being told to leave, the Devils mascot caught the ball from the kid in a Rangers shirt.

The camera cut to the kid, now clearly regretting his decision. NJ Devil wound up and drilled him in the face — and right as the ball hit, the schedule flashed on the screen. The Rangers don’t even play the Devils until March, but New Jersey made sure to start its video with an aggressive statement.

3. Nashville Predators — What’s a Manhattan?

The Nashville Predators went with a country bar skit for their schedule release, where some fans walked in and ordered drinks based on their team.

When a Rangers fan asked for a Manhattan and a New York Islanders fan followed with a Long Island Iced Tea order, the bartender paused and said, “This is awkward … we don’t serve those here. How about some sweet tea?”

That definitely went over well in Tennessee.

Related: NHL season opener against Rangers ‘bit ironic’ for Penguins coach Dan Muse

4. Minnesota Wild — Smash the apple

The Minnesota Wild smashed a different object for each opponent in their schedule release. For the Rangers, it was a brown ceramic apple getting obliterated with a sledgehammer.

Maybe not so original, but certainly gets the point across.

5. Detroit Red Wings — You’ve been bounced

The Detroit Red Wings went with a bar scene for the schedule drop, opening with a massive bouncer tossing out two fans — one in a Rangers jersey, the other in Chicago Blackhawks gear. It’s a clear shot taken at two fellow original six franchises.

@detroitredwings
Full schedule at detroitredwings.com!!!

♬ original sound – Detroit Red Wings

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Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...nny-videos-posted-nhl-team-schedule-releases/

New York Rangers · Saturday at 7:34 AM

Daily Slice: Rangers Wrap; Crosby Talk; Young NHL Trade Targets

Apr 6, 2021; New York, New York, USA; Igor Shesterkin #31 and Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers defend against Sidney Crosby #87 of the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period at Madison Square Garden on April 06, 2021 in New York City.Mandatory Credit: Bruce Bennett/POOL PHOTOS-USA TODAY Sports

A Saturday in mid-July is getting close to lake-house season for the hockey world, but there remains quite a bit of unfinished business. The NHL trade talk now features a couple of young trade targets, including one youngster whose agent went very public with his desire to go. If you missed the week of Rangers news, we’ll catch you up, from former goalies hanging them up to K’Andre Miller’s goodbye. Some blunt talk about the Pittsburgh Penguins trading Sidney Crosby, and the last part of today’s slice is that Canadian media is all over a potential blockbuster for an Erik Karlsson trade up north.

Jim Cerny is on vacation, and we can probably let some of the cat out of the bag. Forever Blueshirts is now closely associated with the Hockey Now network. You may know our new FB colleagues, New Jersey Hockey Now and NYI Hockey Now.

In fact, I’m not only a writer, but I was/am the owner of the Hockey Now franchise while I closely cover the Pittsburgh Penguins. And now we’re all one big happy family. We’ll get into this more over the coming weeks.

New York Rangers

If you’ve missed anything over the last few days, here you go.

Forever Blueshirts: It’s been relatively quiet since K’Andre Miller got the call from general manager Chris Drury that the club (finally) traded him to the Carolina Hurricanes. This week, Miller posted a hearty thank you to all and Rangers fans.

So close to 300 wins, but so far. Jaroslav Halak said he’s made peace with not quite getting to the milestone. It does not quite sound like Halak wanted to retire, but not every player gets the choice. Here’s the retirement story of the former Rangers goalie.

It was schedule week for the NHL. The league released the last 82-game schedule before we go to 84 next season. A few of the Rangers rivals had some fun at their expense in the schedule release videos. Watch the five videos that poked fun at the Rangers.

Here are the 10 can-not-miss games of the Rangers’ schedule.

Isn’t it ironic, don’t ya think? The NHL certainly had a sense of humor when they made the schedule, as the Rangers face Pittsburgh on opening night. It will be “ironic” that former NYR assistant coach Dan Muse will make his NHL head coaching debut against the Rangers, but also the season begins with Mike Sullivan vs. his former team.

It’s like rain on your wedding day.

NHL Trade Rumors, News, & Colleagues

TSN Video: Sullivan and Rangers assistant coach David Quinn couldn’t get the best out of Erik Karlsson last season, and that’s a good part of why Pittsburgh hit the skids. However, Pittsburgh is shopping the 35-year-old Karlsson, and Canadian media is all over it. Could the enigmatic yet dynamic defenseman wind up with the Edmonton Oilers or another loaded Canadian team?

Could Karlsson be the Leetch to McDavid’s Messier?

A few quick news and notes: Gabe Vilardi signed a six-year, $45 million extension with the Winnipeg Jets. And RFA goalie Lukas Dostal inked a five-year, $32.5 million contract with the someday mighty Anaheim Ducks.

Sportsnet: The Toronto Maple Leafs swung the big trade this week. Big is the keyword as they snagged Dakota Joshua from the Vancouver Canucks for little more than a song. Luke Fox lays out the important question: why Toronto wanted Joshua.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: The Blueshirts’ longtime rival has a pair of new trade targets on the scene, including 24-year-old Yegor Chinakhov, whose agent took to X to blast the Columbus Blue Jackets and make public his trade request. That’s only half the story from our colleagues in Pittsburgh. Also, here’s some straight talk from someone (me) who has directly talked to Sidney Crosby about being traded. Here’s the Penguins trade talk.

Florida Hockey Now: It ain’t nothin’ but a good time. How could I resist? The Florida Panthers’ party continued at one of the great bars in South Florida. How about some famous rib rolls and hot wings in the Stanley Cup?

The Athletic ($): Shayna Goldman reopened a topic from the spring. Could another club swipe Mason McTavish from Anaheim with an offer sheet? Goldman lays out a very expensive proposition to get McTavish off the pond.

The two cents here is that an offer sheet is almost impossible, but a trade? Anaheim has plenty of cap space to match any offer, but making a good hockey trade is how it gets done.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...ers-wrap-crosby-talk-young-nhl-trade-targets/

New York Rangers · Saturday at 7:43 PM

Former Rangers forward Blake Wheeler retires; ‘I just didn’t have anything left in the tank’

Wendell Cruz-Imagn ImagesWendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Blake Wheeler, who played his final NHL season with the New York Rangers in 2023-24, has officially announced his retirement.

The 38-year-old forward’s last of 16 NHL seasons saw him put up 21 points (nine goals, 12 assists) in 54 games with the Rangers before sustaining a lower-body injury against the Montreal Canadiens on Feb. 15, 2024, that kept him out of the remainder of the regular season.

He didn’t play again taking the ice for Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Final against the Florida Panthers on May 28, 2024. Wheeler was scoreless in 9:18 of ice time in his final NHL appearance.

Blake Wheeler has retired from the NHL. The former Winnipeg Jets captain played 1,172 career games, with 943 points and 321 goals pic.twitter.com/R01QDlJIF7

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) July 19, 2025

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“I tore the ligaments on both sides of my ankle, and then I broke my fibula,” Wheeler said Wednesday on “Jets at Noon.” “Once I got hurt, I was already kinda feeling like that was gonna be sort of my last year when I was playing, even healthy in New York. And then when the injury happened, it just felt like that was some sort of sign. I hadn’t really been hurt my entire career more or less.”

Wheeler went unsigned prior to the 2024-25 season but opted against retiring and officially remained a free agent until telling “Jets at Noon” this week that his career was over.

“I just didn’t have anything left in the tank for it,” he said. “I was at peace with it almost immediately.”

The injury was a turning point for a player who had remained relatively healthy throughout his career.

Blake Wheeler, who finished NHL career with Rangers, retires

Wheeler spent 13 seasons with the Atlanta Thrashers/Winnipeg Jets organization after he was acquired by the Thrashers in February 2011 in a trade with the Boston Bruins, who had signed him as a free agent on July 1, 2008. The Arizona Coyotes had taken him with the fifth pick in the 2004 NHL Draft but were unable to sign him after his college career at Minnesota ended.

The Thrashers franchise moved to Winnipeg in the summer of 2011, and Wheeler became a steady point producer for more than a decade. He was named captain heading into 2016-17 and wore the “C” for six seasons before coach Rick Bowness stripped him of the captaincy before the 2022-23 season.

The native of Plymouth, Minnesota, had back-to-back 91-point seasons in 2017–18 and 2018–19, and was selected to the NHL All-Star Game in each season. He had at least 20 goals and 60 points in seven consecutive seasons with the Jets while serving as a steadying presence in the locker room during six trips to the playoffs.

Blake Wheeler is calling it a career after 1,172 games!

Best of luck in retirement, Blake! pic.twitter.com/j1h41nVE80

— NHL (@NHL) July 19, 2025

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He finished his NHL career with 943 points (321 goals, 622 assists) in 1,172 regular-season games, and had 45 points (10 goals, 35 assists) in 66 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

Wheeler remains the Jets’ all-time leader in games played (897), assists (550) and points (812).

After the Jets bought out his contract in June 2023, the Rangers signed Wheeler to a one-year contract on July 1, 2023; the deal was worth $800,000 with another $300,000 in potential bonuses.

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

“More or less, right after last year knew I was all done,” Wheeler said. “I just haven’t felt like a rush to like make a formal announcement or anything. But yeah, after my injury and kinda the way things ended last year,

“So yeah, I was at peace with it almost immediately after last year.”

Wheeler is the second player this week to announce his retirement after playing his final season with the Rangers. Goaltender Jaroslav Halak, who backed up Igor Shesterkin in 2022-23 and spent the next two seasons unable to find another team willing to sign him, officially retired on Friday. He finished his career with 295 wins and 53 shutouts.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...-i-just-didnt-have-anything-left-in-the-tank/

New York Rangers · 2025-07-20T08:51:02-0400

Rangers keep eye on potential 2026 unrestricted free agents, including Connor McDavid

Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesKirby Lee-Imagn Images

Players who can become unrestricted free agents next summer became eligible to sign contract extensions on July 1. But lost in the shuffle over this year’s UFA signings is the fact that the big names who can opt to re-up with their current team or opt for a new employer after the 2025-26 season haven’t exactly rushed to make a decision.

Nor have their teams.

In fact, three of the seven players with the highest average annual value (AAV) contracts in ’25-26 can become UFAs next July 1. One of the three is Artemi Panarin, who has led the New York Rangers in scoring in each of his six seasons since signing a seven-year contract with an AAV of $11.64 million with the Blueshirts on July 1, 2019. Panarin turns 34 on Oct. 30, and Rangers’ general manager Chris Drury has made no move to sign him this summer.

James Guillory-Imagn Images

Of course, the biggest name who can become available next summer is Connor McDavid, who will play his 11th season with the Edmonton Oilers since they took him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2015 NHL Draft. McDavid was frustrated after the Oilers lost to the Florida Panthers in the Stanley Cup Final for the second straight season, and he’s made no indication one way or the other whether he wants to stay with the only team he’s ever played for.

Here’s a look at 10 position players who can become free agents next summer and should interest the Rangers if they and their respective teams can’t reach agreement on a new contract (we’ll exclude goalies because the Rangers already have an elite netminder in Igor Shesterkin).

Connor McDavid, C (Edmonton Oilers)

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

McDavid has made it clear after the Oilers twice came up short in the Final that his objective is to win the Stanley Cup — nothing else matters.

That could be a problem. Edmonton has made no move to improve its goaltending duo after Stuart Skinner and Calvin Pickard were no match for Florida’s Sergei Bobrovsky in the Final. They’ve already changed goalie coaches but have made no personnel moves, meaning they’re likely to begin the season with the same twosome.

How much money will McDavid want? He’ll make $12.5 million this season and figures to get more on his next contract than fellow Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl, the NHL’s top-paid player for 2025-26, whose eight-year, $14 million AAV contract begins this season. If No. 97 decides to look elsewhere, the Rangers could be a possibility — they have a two-time Cup-winning coach in Mike Sullivan, a premier goaltender in Shesterkin and a desperate need for a No. 1 center. But the Blueshirts would have a lot of competition.

The Rangers have less than $780,000 in salary cap space available for this season, according to PuckPedia. But if they opt not to keep Panarin, that freed-up money and the $8.5 million jump in the cap for the 2026-27 season would give them more than $30 million in cap space — enough to sign McDavid (or another premium UFA).

Jack Eichel, C (Vegas Golden Knights)

Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

The Boston-area native was taken by the Buffalo Sabres with the No. 2 overall pick in 2015, but Eichel didn’t come into his own until he was traded to the Golden Knights in November 2021. He was instrumental in their Stanley Cup championship in 2023, leading all scorers with 26 points, and is coming off his best offensive season, setting franchise records with 66 assists and 94 points in 77 games.

Injuries have plagued Eichel throughout his 10 NHL seasons. But when he’s healthy, Eichel is an elite playmaking center who can rise to the occasion in big-game moments, especially in the postseason. Teams seeking a first-line scoring center who doesn’t shirk his defensive responsibilities will pursue Eichel if the Golden Knights can’t re-sign him first.

He figures to get a healthy raise from his current $10 million AAV, and the Golden Knights reportedly are trying to lock him up. But if he hits the market, expect the Rangers to be near the front of the line.

Kirill Kaprizov, LW (Minnesota Wild)

Nick Wosika-Imagn Images

“Kirill the Thrill” is the most exciting player in Wild history. He was on target to break his own single-season franchise record for points (108 in 2021-22) last season until injuries cost him all but seven games after Christmas due to injuries. Before he was hurt, Kaprizov was among the NHL leaders in goals and points; he still finished with 25 goals and 56 points in 41 games.

Kaprizov also has 15 goals in 25 playoff games, though the Wild has yet to win a playoff series with him in the lineup.

There’s no reason to expect that, if healthy, the 28-year-old left wing won’t be among the NHL’s elite scorers – and that he’ll get a big bump from his current $9 million AAV. Kaprizov (1.21 points per game) would give the Rangers a younger version of Panarin (1.28 ppg in six seasons in New York); he’s not as good a playmaker but a better goal scorer and more exciting to boot.

Kyle Connor, LW (Winnipeg Jets)

James Carey Lauder-Imagn Images

If the Rangers think Panarin is too old and they can’t/won’t go after Kaprizov, they might decide to make a push for Connor, a big reason Winnipeg won the Presidents’ Trophy last season.

Since 2019-20, Connor leads the Jets in goals (217, sixth in the NHL during that period), points (454) and game-winning goals (47). He’s coming off a 41-goal, 97-point season; his assist total (56) and points were career highs.

Connor is entering the final season of a seven-year, $7.1 AAV deal that has turned into a bargain. Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff retained center Mark Scheifele and Vezina Trophy-winning goalie Connor Hellebuyck to team-friendly deals before last season. Connor might be willing to do the same — but if not, expect Drury to be interested.

Adrian Kempe, LW (Los Angeles Kings)

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Speaking of bargains … the Kings have one in Kempe, who’s led them in scoring in each of the past two seasons and is entering the final season of a four-year deal with an AAV of $5.5 million.

Since his emergence as a scorer in 2021-22, the 28-year-old leads the Kings in goals (139), game-winners (22) and shorthanded goals (10); he is second in points (269) and plus-minus (plus-55). Kempe was tops on the Kings last season with 73 points and hit the 35-goal mark for the third time in the past four seasons. The only thing he hasn’t been able to do in that span is help them win a playoff round.

According to PuckPedia, the Kings should have more than $37 million in cap space for the 2026-27 season, which would be more than enough to meet Kempe’s recently disclosed asking price of $10 million AAV. Another chunk is likely to go to center Anze Kopitar, who also can become a free agent next summer but is all but certain to be re-signed and end his Hall of Fame career with the Kings – the only team he’s ever played for.

Artemi Panarin, LW (New York Rangers)

Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

Only McDavid, Draisaitl and Nathan MacKinnon of the Colorado Avalanche have more points than Panarin since he arrived in New York ahead of the 2019-20 season.

Panarin has been a First-Team All-Star twice and finished in the top five in Hart Trophy voting twice in his six seasons with the Rangers. His 89 points (37 goals, 52 assists) last season were 27 more than runner-up Mika Zibanejad. But his age could be a factor; he would turn 35 within the first few weeks of a new contract.

If the Rangers, who missed the playoffs last season, don’t return to being a contender, would Panarin want to re-up? And would Drury want to take the risk of signing a player that old rather than spend his money on younger talent – or try to get a big haul at the NHL Trade Deadline in March?

Martin Necas, RW (Colorado Avalanche)

Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Necas reportedly wasn’t happy with his role as a member of the Carolina Hurricanes before going to Colorado in the Mikko Rantanen trade. His puck skills are considerable and could likely produce a lot more points in the right setup. His scoring rate actually dipped quite a bit after the trade despite the fact he averaged 2:25 more ice time.

There are reports that the 27-year-old wasn’t happy with the way he was being used in Colorado, and with a $6.5 million AAV, he might opt to play out his contract and seek big money ($9 million-plus AAV) in a new deal.

The Rangers have been looking for upgrades at right wing for several seasons. A big season for Necas would surely attract their interest.

Alex Tuch, RW (Buffalo Sabres)

Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

The Stanley Cup Playoffs are a distant memory in Buffalo, where the Sabres haven’t qualified for the postseason since 2010-11. Despite that, Tuch stated publicly after last season that he loves being a Sabre and would be willing to re-sign.

But are the Sabres any closer to ending their NHL-record 14-year playoff drought? The case could be made that they’ve gotten worse, not better, especially after trading forward JJ Peterka to Utah. If the Sabres don’t re-sign the 30-year-old (or he opts not to sign), Tuch would be a hot commodity at the trade deadline as a big-bodied, two-way player who’s scored 36 goals in two of the past three seasons and is entering the last season of a contract with a $4.75 million AAV.

As with Necas, the Rangers would be upgrading themselves on right wing by adding Tuch – if the price were right.

Rasmus Andersson, D (Calgary Flames)

Brett Holmes-Imagn Images

The Flames have been fielding offers for the righty-shooting defenseman for the past few weeks, and there’s no question he would give the Rangers a boost on the blue line. One possible scenario for Drury to think about is a sign-and-trade that would keep him in New York for a while.

Also, Andersson ($4.55 million AAV this season) is coming off a relatively down year. If he has a good season in Calgary, he could fetch a major haul as a rental – unless the Flames are battling for a playoff berth, as they did last season.

He may not be a fit with the Rangers, though, because he’s a right shot, and they already have four righties on the defense corps.

Alex Ovechkin, LW (Washington Capitals)

James Guillory-Imagn Images

OK, this is the hockey free agent version of “Fantasy Island.”

But imagine this: The NHL’s all-time goal-scoring leader decides after his 21st NHL season, all with the Capitals, that he wants to try something new. New York has a big Russian community, and he’d be playing in the NHL’s biggest market. Commissioner Gary Bettman and the League’s marketing department would be beside themselves. So would Rangers fans.

And if last season is any indication, Ovechkin can still play – he had 44 goals in 65 games and enters 2025-26 three goals shy of 900 for his career.

Yes, it’s hard to conceive of Ovi finishing his career in New York. But we can dream.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...tricted-free-agents-including-connor-mcdavid/

New York Rangers · 2025-07-21T00:10:05-0400

Former Rangers defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk speaks out on mental health ahead of Shoulder Check Showcase

James Guillory-Imagn ImagesJames Guillory-Imagn Images

Former New York Rangers defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk will be among the many NHL players taking the ice on July 24 at Terry Conners Ice Rink in Stamford, Connecticut, for the third annual Shoulder Check Showcase.

The event, which supports youth mental health, brings together current and former Rangers, along with other players to promote the message of “Reaching Out. Checking In. Making Contact.”

“The hat I’m wearing right now [is] for one of my good buddies, Jimmy Hayes. You know, this is something that hits home for me,” Shattenkirk told NHL Network. “Seeing the message that’s behind it, and knowing you can make a difference with such a small act, it goes a long way.”

The showcase was founded in memory of Hayden Thorsen, a 16-year-old goalie from Connecticut who committed suicide in 2022. Since then, Hayden’s parents, Rob Thorsen and Sarah Thompson, have made it their goal to turn grief into action through the Shoulder Check movement, a campaign that encourages kids to show up for one another with kindness, on and off the ice.

Related: Daily Slice: Wheeler Retires, Rangers Linked to Trade Target

Before the puck drops, players gather at center ice with one hand on the shoulder of the person next to them, taking the Shoulder Check pledge: “I promise to Reach Out, Check In, Make Contact.”

The event continues to grow. From its beginnings just two summers ago, it’s become a marquee summer showcase featuring returning talent like Shattenkirk, Chris Kreider and Jonathan Quick.

The event begins with fan events at 4 p.m., including food trucks, raffles, and a chance to learn more abut the Shoulder Check initiative. A skills showcase will follow at 6 p.m., with puck drop set for 6:30 p.m.

Shattenkirk’s mission behind the Shoulder Check movement

Shattenkirk said he’s returning to the Shoulder Check Showcase to help continue to grow the message behind the movement. As a defenseman who spent more than a decade in the NHL before announcing his retirement last December, he has seen firsthand how powerful the hockey community can be when it comes together for something bigger than the game itself.

In Stamford, that “something bigger” is mental health awareness. During the past three years, he’s remained one of the event’s biggest supporters, growing it both on the ice and behind the scenes.

Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

For Shattenkirk and many of the players who return each year, the message behind the Shoulder Check movement is personal.

Related: Rangers keep eye on potential 2026 free agents, including Connor McDavid

“It can happen to any one of us,” he said, reflecting on how mental health challenges hit every corner of the sport. “We’ve seen that, especially over the last few years that the event’s been going on.”

Shattenkirk praised the work of Thorsen and Thompson, who turned an unimaginably sorrowful situation into a successful movement that now echoes across the hockey world. What started as a local tribute has turned into a national call to action.

Along with Shattenkirk, eight other former and current Rangers will take part in the Shoulder Check Showcase. Adam Fox, Matt Rempe, and Brett Berard will represent the current squad, while Kreider, Kevin Hayes, Frank Vatrano, Martin St. Louis, and Quick are all set to partake.

Quick will be joined by St. Louis, a Hockey Hall of Famer, behind Team Quick’s bench.

With more players, creators, and fans joining each year, the Shoulder Check Showcase continues to expand its audience.

CLICK HERE for more information about the Shoulder Check Showcase and movement.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...ntal-health-ahead-of-shoulder-check-showcase/

New York Rangers · 2025-07-21T15:15:53-0400

Vincent Trocheck viewed as most likely to slot in at 3C on Rangers roster: poll

Danny Wild-Imagn ImagesDanny Wild-Imagn Images

With the New York Rangers’ offseason in full swing, the question of who should slot in as the third-line center in 2025-26 continues to loom.

In a recent Forever Blueshirts fan poll, Vincent Trocheck emerged as the favorite, racking up 38.5 percent of the vote. The dual-option of Juuso Parssinen and Jonny Brodzinski followed at 28.8 percent, with Mika Zibanejad (21 percent) and Noah Laba (11.7 percent) rounding out the choices.

With a new coach in Mike Sullivan, several lineup combinations on the table and prospects fighting for a roster spot, the role of third-line center role remains one of the most intriguing decisions heading into the new season.

Related: Former Rangers defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk speaks out on mental health ahead of Shoulder Check Showcase

Trocheck leads the pack in 3C poll

Danny Wild-USA TODAY Sports

Trocheck was the runaway winner in the Forever Blueshirts poll. Since arriving in New York, he’s been one of the Rangers’ most productive forwards. Outside of his 75-point breakout season with the Florida Panthers in 2017-18, Trocheck’s best hockey has come on Broadway.

The 32-year-old had 64 points in 2022-23 and followed with a career-high 77 points, including 52 assists, in 2023-24 — helping the Rangers win the Presidents’ Trophy as regular-season champions. He’s dominant in the face-off circle, finishing above 56 percent in each of his three seasons with the Rangers, including 59.3 percent last season. During the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs, he had 20 points in 16 games while averaging more than 23 minutes of ice time.

Skating between Artemi Panarin and Alexis Lafreniere, Trocheck helped form one of the NHL’s most effective lines. Panarin had a career year with 49 goals and 120 points, Trocheck had 25 goals and 77 points, and Lafreniere broke out with 28 goals and 57 points. Even during last year’s rocky season, the line still held a 51.18 percent expected goals share at 5-on-5 and outscored opponents 36-28 in 60 games together, per Natural Stat Trick.

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Reliable defensively, hard forechecking, and lethal on draws — Trocheck is a near-perfect 3C on paper. He’s even played that role under Sullivan before, centering the third line for Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off in February.

But the cost of breaking up that chemistry is steep. Unless someone like Brennan Othmann or Brett Berard is ready to fill a top-six wing spot, shifting Trocheck away from Panarin and Lafreniere could create more problems than it fills. And yes, Trocheck regressed slightly last season, but the dip wasn’t unique. Nearly every forward on the roster took a step back in 2024-25.

Other third-line center options in play for Rangers
Juuso Parssinen

Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Parssinen didn’t make a huge impact after being acquired in the Ryan Lindgren trade, spending most of March rotating in and out of the lineup. But after getting another opportunity in April, he made it count. Parssinen closed out the season with five points in his final three games. A three-point night against the Islanders and a goal and assist in Florida four days later earned Parssinen a two-year extension worth $1.25 million AAV. At 6-foot-3 with the ability to play center and wing, the Rangers hope Parssinen can build off his late-season momentum and carry it into training camp.

Related: Former Rangers forward Blake Wheeler retires; ‘I just didn’t have anything left in the tank’

Jonny Brodzinski

Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Brodzinski isn’t the flashiest option, but he quietly put together his most complete NHL season in 2024-25. He finished with 19 points in 51 games, matching his career-high, while finally staying on the Rangers’ roster full time. A former Hartford Wolf Pack captain who can play center or wing, Brodzinski brings a two-way game that coaches trust. Whether Sullivan sees him as a full-time 3C or a steady depth option, he’s earned a real shot.

Mika Zibanejad

Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports

Zibanejad finished third in the fan poll. That’s not because fans see him as a third-line option, but because his position directly impacts the rest of the lineup. Zibanejad shifted to right wing late last season on a line with J.T. Miller at center and Will Cuylle on left wing. If Sullivan chooses to keep Zibanejad on the wing, it opens the door for someone like Trocheck, Parssinen or Brodzinski to take over at 3C. But if Zibanejad goes back to centering his own line, one of those players will likely get pushed out.

Noah Laba

Laba may have finished last in the fan poll, but the 21-year-old is far from irrelevant in the Rangers’ plans. After putting up 85 points during three seasons at Colorado College, Laba signed his entry-level contract and joined the Wolf Pack late in the AHL season. Laba projects as a reliable bottom-six center down the line, but for now, expect him to start 2025-26 in the AHL. He’s the kind of player who could force his way into the NHL conversation sooner than expected if injuries hit.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...kely-to-slot-in-at-3c-on-rangers-roster-poll/

News Rangers Team Notes

Starter

‘It’s amazing where life takes you’: Rangers TV analyst Dave Maloney​

Starter

1. Gabe Perreault (F)​

2. Scott Morrow (D)​

3. Malcolm Spence (F)​

4. EJ Emery (D)​

5. Drew Fortescue (D)​

6. Dylan Garand (G)​

7. Noah Laba (C)​

8. Dylan Roobroeck (C)​

9. Carey Terrance (C)​

10. Adam Sykora (F)​

Starter

Neil Smith raised important question about Rangers deal with Vladislav Gavrikov​

Starter

Rangers options moving forward with Artemi Panarin​

1. Rangers could re-sign Artemi Panarin​

2. Rangers could deal Artemi Panarin before season or prior to NHL Trade Deadline​

3. Rangers can let season play out, then decide on Artemi Panarin​

4. So what’s likeliest Rangers scenario with Artemi Panarin?​

Starter

Reunion will take place when Rangers host Penguins on opening night​

Starter

Rangers prospect says ‘my uncle gets me stronger’ with late-night chats​

Starter

No ‘timeline’ for E.J. Emery to make jump to NHL with Rangers​

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Mike Sullivan makes quick return to Pittsburgh with Rangers​

Rangers on road for holidays (and beyond)​

Rangers to get late-season home cooking …​

… but a tough finish​

A dozen back-to-backs, including a rarity​

Starter

Wayne Thomas, Rangers goalie and minor-league coach, dies at 77​

Starter

K’Andre Miller thanks Rangers, fans in classy farewell message​

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Oct. 11 — at Pittsburgh Penguins​

Oct. 28 — at Vancouver Canucks​

Nov. 4 — vs. Carolina Hurricanes​

Nov. 8 — vs. New York Islanders​

Nov. 28 — at Boston Bruins​

Dec. 15 — vs Anaheim Ducks​

Dec. 16 — vs. Vancouver Canucks​

Jan. 2 — at Florida Panthers​

Jan. 12 — vs. Seattle Kraken​

March 31 — vs. New Jersey Devils​

Starter

5 videos poking fun at Rangers during 2025-26 NHL team schedule releases​

1. Buffalo Sabres — Lights, (security) camera, action​

2. New Jersey Devils — Dodgeball drama​

3. Nashville Predators — What’s a Manhattan?​

4. Minnesota Wild — Smash the apple​

5. Detroit Red Wings — You’ve been bounced​

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New York Rangers​

NHL Trade Rumors, News, & Colleagues​

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Blake Wheeler, who finished NHL career with Rangers, retires​

Starter

Connor McDavid, C (Edmonton Oilers)​

Jack Eichel, C (Vegas Golden Knights)​

Kirill Kaprizov, LW (Minnesota Wild)​

Kyle Connor, LW (Winnipeg Jets)​

Adrian Kempe, LW (Los Angeles Kings)​

Artemi Panarin, LW (New York Rangers)​

Martin Necas, RW (Colorado Avalanche)​

Alex Tuch, RW (Buffalo Sabres)​

Rasmus Andersson, D (Calgary Flames)​

Alex Ovechkin, LW (Washington Capitals)​

Starter

Shattenkirk’s mission behind the Shoulder Check movement​

Starter

Trocheck leads the pack in 3C poll​

Other third-line center options in play for Rangers​

Juuso Parssinen​

Jonny Brodzinski​

Mika Zibanejad​

‘It’s amazing where life takes you’: Rangers TV analyst Dave Maloney

1. Gabe Perreault (F)

2. Scott Morrow (D)

3. Malcolm Spence (F)

4. EJ Emery (D)

5. Drew Fortescue (D)

6. Dylan Garand (G)

7. Noah Laba (C)

8. Dylan Roobroeck (C)

9. Carey Terrance (C)

10. Adam Sykora (F)

Neil Smith raised important question about Rangers deal with Vladislav Gavrikov

Rangers options moving forward with Artemi Panarin

1. Rangers could re-sign Artemi Panarin

2. Rangers could deal Artemi Panarin before season or prior to NHL Trade Deadline

3. Rangers can let season play out, then decide on Artemi Panarin

4. So what’s likeliest Rangers scenario with Artemi Panarin?

Reunion will take place when Rangers host Penguins on opening night

Rangers prospect says ‘my uncle gets me stronger’ with late-night chats

No ‘timeline’ for E.J. Emery to make jump to NHL with Rangers

Mike Sullivan makes quick return to Pittsburgh with Rangers

Rangers on road for holidays (and beyond)

Rangers to get late-season home cooking …

… but a tough finish

A dozen back-to-backs, including a rarity

Wayne Thomas, Rangers goalie and minor-league coach, dies at 77

K’Andre Miller thanks Rangers, fans in classy farewell message

Oct. 11 — at Pittsburgh Penguins

Oct. 28 — at Vancouver Canucks

Nov. 4 — vs. Carolina Hurricanes

Nov. 8 — vs. New York Islanders

Nov. 28 — at Boston Bruins

Dec. 15 — vs Anaheim Ducks

Dec. 16 — vs. Vancouver Canucks

Jan. 2 — at Florida Panthers

Jan. 12 — vs. Seattle Kraken

March 31 — vs. New Jersey Devils

5 videos poking fun at Rangers during 2025-26 NHL team schedule releases

1. Buffalo Sabres — Lights, (security) camera, action

2. New Jersey Devils — Dodgeball drama

3. Nashville Predators — What’s a Manhattan?

4. Minnesota Wild — Smash the apple

5. Detroit Red Wings — You’ve been bounced

New York Rangers

NHL Trade Rumors, News, & Colleagues

Blake Wheeler, who finished NHL career with Rangers, retires

Connor McDavid, C (Edmonton Oilers)

Jack Eichel, C (Vegas Golden Knights)

Kirill Kaprizov, LW (Minnesota Wild)

Kyle Connor, LW (Winnipeg Jets)

Adrian Kempe, LW (Los Angeles Kings)

Artemi Panarin, LW (New York Rangers)

Martin Necas, RW (Colorado Avalanche)

Alex Tuch, RW (Buffalo Sabres)

Rasmus Andersson, D (Calgary Flames)

Alex Ovechkin, LW (Washington Capitals)

Shattenkirk’s mission behind the Shoulder Check movement

Trocheck leads the pack in 3C poll

Other third-line center options in play for Rangers

Juuso Parssinen

Jonny Brodzinski

Mika Zibanejad

Noah Laba