The New York Rangers have been mostly quiet so far this offseason despite speculation that they would pull off a few blockbuster deals in free agency. Ultimately, general manager Chris Drury has kept it low-key as he makes a few under-the-radar moves to upgrade the roster.
However, a huge agreement might still be in the works. One superstar who is allegedly up for trade this off-season is someone the Rangers have apparently expressed interest in acquiring. Maybe they could finally obtain Trevor Zegras by trading away Kaapo Kakko.
The Rangers are reportedly interested in trading for Trevor Zegras
Zegras has had his name floated around in trade rumors for quite some time now. The Rangers were reportedly in the mix with at least seven other teams earlier this offseason who were expressing “serious interest” in trading for Zegras, according to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. With the first week of free agency finished, Zegras is still a member of the Anaheim Ducks, despite trade interest from around the league. However, the possibility that a deal gets done remains.
Zegras, a 23-year-old center who has already made quite a name for himself in the NHL but is still regarded as a rising star who is only beginning to reach his full potential, would be an incredible, blockbuster acquisition for the Rangers if they pulled off a trade to acquire him this summer. Zegras put up 61 points (23 goals and 38 assists) in 2021, and he followed that up with 65 points (23 goals and 42 assists) in 2022, making it back-to-back 60+ point seasons. In 2023, Zegras dealt with injuries, appearing in just 31 games and totaling only 15 points. Despite this, he is still a talented young player who can play both center and wing and could immediately improve the Rangers’ lineup.
Kaapo Kakko has been on the trade block this summer
Additionally, trade speculations have been making the rounds regarding Kakko, as the Rangers are purportedly holding out for the “perfect offer” to cross their desk before letting go of the former No. 2 overall choice.
If Kakko could be included in a trade package for Zegras, Drury should seriously consider it. Trading Kakko for Zegras would greatly increase the team’s potential. Kakko’s highest single-season point total is just 40, achieved in 2022. Beyond that season, he has only exceeded 20 points once and has frequently been sidelined by injuries throughout his five-year career.
Zegras, on the other hand, has genuine superstar potential. He can score significantly more points than Kakko in a season and could provide the speed the Rangers currently lack. As the offseason progresses, Kakko’s trade value continues to decline. If the Rangers have the chance to trade him for a young star like Zegras, they should make the move as soon as possible.