A Surprise Rangers Defenseman Could Be Moved Before Artemi Panarin

Braden Schneider’s name is starting to pop up more and more in trade conversations around the league, notes NHL insider Elliotte Friedman. While most of the focus in New York has been on Artemi Panarin, there’s a growing sense among insiders that Schneider could end up being the next move the Rangers make.

---

Friedman has reported that teams are calling about Schneider — and that the Rangers are at least willing to listen. After recent scouting meetings, the message from New York was that if teams are curious about anyone on the roster, now is the time to call. Schneider, importantly, doesn’t have any trade protection and isn’t locked into a long-term deal, which makes him a much easier piece to trade.

Because so many of the Rangers’ key players have trade protection, trading them becomes more challenging.

Meanwhile, Schneider is only 24, and while the past month has been a rough stretch for him, it hasn’t changed how he’s viewed around the league.

Schneider Has a Lot of Qualities Playoff Teams Look For

While his production has declined, he’s been a dependable, physical defenseman in the past. One who can handle tough minutes and has playoff experience. That’s exactly the kind of player teams are always hunting for. Right-shot blueliners are in limited supply, so Schneider suddenly looks like one of the more attractive options available.

He’s also heading toward restricted free agency, which gives any acquiring team plenty of control moving forward. That alone adds to his appeal.

Recent trades suggest the return could be significant. Young, controllable defensemen have been fetching first-round picks, prospects, and roster players — and Schneider fits that mold. With Adam Fox nearing a return and other options available to fill depth roles, the Rangers may decide that selling high now is the best way to shape what comes next.

Next: Panarin Talk Heating Up as Rangers Narrow Down Trade Options