New York Rangers

Rangers GM Chris Drury ‘Clearing the Decks’ for a Big Move

New York Rangers GM Chris Drury is clearing the decks on his team. What trade does he have in mind that would change the entire Rangers team?

by
Old Prof
December 19, 2024

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently joined The FAN Hockey Show to discuss the New York Rangers’ trade of Kaapo Kakko to the Seattle Kraken. The trade, which saw the Rangers acquire defenseman Will Borgen and additional assets, has sparked speculation about GM Chris Drury’s plans. Friedman shared his thoughts on Kakko’s comments after being scratched, the implications of the deal, and why the Rangers may be setting the stage for something significant.

Kakko’s Frustrations Played a Role But Weren’t the Main Factor

Friedman believes that Kaapo Kakko’s public comments following his frustration with being scratched may have nudged the Rangers toward a trade, but they weren’t the primary reason.

“I don’t think it was the main reason, but I do think it pushed the needle a bit,” Friedman explained. “I’m not going to criticize Kakko here—he was frustrated and voiced his opinion, which he’s entitled to. Players often get ripped for being too bland, so I’m fine with him speaking out. But the Rangers clearly felt that it was time to move on.”

Kakko, once a highly-touted prospect, struggled to find consistent success in New York. His relationship with the team seemed strained, and a fresh start in Seattle could allow him to rediscover his game.

Rangers’ Strategy: Clearing the Decks for Something Big

According to Friedman, the Rangers’ front office, led by Chris Drury, appears to have decided that the current iteration of the team wasn’t working. The Kakko trade is just one step in what Friedman calls “clearing the decks.”

“This isn’t the big, flashy move everyone might have expected, but it’s clear the Rangers are setting up for something big,” Friedman said. “They’ve decided this version of the Rangers isn’t going to cut it, and now they’re making room—whether it’s for a significant trade or to pursue one of the unsigned players still available in the league.”

The assets acquired in the deal, including Will Borgen, provide Drury with flexibility. Borgen fills a need as a right-handed defenseman. However, his pending free-agent status after the season signals that he may not be a long-term fit in New York. Instead, his acquisition could be part of a larger puzzle the Rangers are piecing together.

Why the Kraken Took a Gamble on Kakko

From Seattle’s perspective, the trade represents the calculated risk the Kraken should be taking.

“This is exactly the kind of gamble I like for Seattle,” Friedman said. “Kakko needed a fresh start, and now it’s on the Kraken to develop him in a way the Rangers couldn’t. Much of it is still up to the player himself.”

Seattle adds a talented, young forward who still has the potential to develop into a top-six contributor. For a team building its identity, taking chances on players like Kakko could pay off in the long run.

What’s Next for the Rangers?

The big question lingering after this trade is: What is Chris Drury planning? The Rangers’ moves suggest they’re setting up for a larger acquisition. They are possibly targeting one of the notable unsigned players in the NHL. Or, they could be going to make a splash in the trade market.

“It feels like they’re preparing for something major,” Friedman speculated. “Whether that’s targeting a top-tier player or bolstering their roster in a different way, it’s clear the Rangers have a plan—and they’re willing to shake things up to execute it.”

As the Rangers’ roster continues to take shape, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely. Will these moves align with Drury’s broader vision for the team? One thing is clear: The Rangers are not standing pat, and the next chapter of their rebuild may be just around the corner.