The New York Rangers had a commendable 2023-24 season, advancing to the Eastern Conference Final where they were defeated by the Florida Panthers. As they gear up for the 2024-25 season, the Rangers are focused on enhancing their roster to make a strong run for their first Stanley Cup since 1994. They had an impressive postseason, overcoming the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes, but now face crucial decisions in the offseason to remain competitive. One key priority is extending the contract of their star goaltender Igor Shesterkin. However, to be a championship contender, the Rangers must also strengthen their lineup, which may involve strategic trades or aggressive moves in free agency.
One significant step the Rangers have already taken is placing forward Barclay Goodrow on waivers, leading to his claim by the San Jose Sharks and freeing up over $3.5 million in cap space. With the team on the brink of being a top contender for the Stanley Cup, targeting a player like Steven Stamkos could solidify their position as favorites. Stamkos, with his exceptional offensive skills and proven winning track record with the Tampa Bay Lightning, could be a game-changing acquisition for the Rangers, albeit at a considerable cost.
Steven Stamkos is a hockey legend with an impressive resume: two Maurice Richard Trophies, seven NHL All-Star appearances, two Stanley Cup championships, and a World Cup of Hockey win with Canada in 2016. Despite being 34 years old, Stamkos continues to perform at an elite level. In the recent season, he played 79 games, scoring 40 goals and adding 41 assists, averaging just over a point per game. Throughout his career, Stamkos has amassed 555 goals and 582 assists for a total of 1,137 points in 1,082 games, with an additional 101 points in 128 playoff games.
Stamkos’ impending contract situation is intriguing. His last contract with the Lightning was an eight-year deal worth $8.5 million annually, featuring a full no-movement clause. Although he might take a pay cut to stay with the Lightning, Tampa Bay may opt for a retool if they can’t re-sign him, potentially allowing Stamkos to explore free agency. As a seasoned player with plenty of skill remaining, Stamkos’ next contract might surprise fans. While unlikely to secure another eight-year deal, he could still command a five-year contract with an annual salary close to his previous $8.5 million.
Several teams might pursue Stamkos if he enters free agency. The Toronto Maple Leafs, given Stamkos’ ties to Markham, Ontario, could be a strong contender. Other potential suitors include the Edmonton Oilers, Boston Bruins, Carolina Hurricanes, Utah Hockey Club, and Chicago Blackhawks, each looking to bolster their rosters. Nevertheless, the Rangers should aggressively pursue Stamkos to enhance their championship aspirations.
The Rangers are expected to lose Alex Wennberg, Jack Roslovic, and Blake Wheeler to free agency, creating a gap in their forward group. While this loss isn’t substantial, it does necessitate a focus on reinforcing their forwards. Stamkos could seamlessly integrate into the Rangers’ top-six forwards, and despite the cost of Shesterkin’s expected extension, the Rangers might still afford Stamkos. Securing Stamkos might require trading some high-salary players, such as Jacob Trouba ($8 million), Mika Zibanejad ($8.5 million), or Vincent Trocheck ($5.63 million), but these adjustments could be feasible if Stamkos expresses a desire to join the Rangers.
The Rangers’ playoff exit wasn’t due to any major deficiencies. While they could have benefitted from more offensive production from their depth players, their defensive performance was strong. Acquiring Stamkos could provide the offensive boost needed to elevate the Rangers to the next level. His addition would likely make the Rangers formidable contenders for the Stanley Cup, potentially filling the missing piece in their quest for a championship.
