Detroit Red Wings
Rangers Looking to Red Wings Power-Play QB as Short-Term Fix for Fox Injury?
The Rangers may turn to a former blueliner as a temporary replacement for Adam Fox, with Friedman linking New York to the veteran defender.
With Adam Fox out for at least a month for the New York Rangers, speculation is that the franchise is looking around the NHL market, seeing if they can fill the enormous void left by his departure via trade. For now, the Rangers are staying afloat and facing a game-by-game challenge. It’s not looking like continuing without a replacement is a good long-term plan.
The Detroit Red Wings may be sitting on a valuable trade chip, and Elliotte Friedman believes the New York Rangers are one of the teams that could bite.
With Fox sidelined, Friedman noted on 32 Thoughts that the Rangers are exploring short-term options to stabilize their blue line—and veteran Erik Gustafsson is a logical fit.
Gustafsson, 33, has appeared in just one game for Detroit this season before being pushed down the depth chart by rising prospects like Axel Sandin-Pellikka, Simon Edvinsson, and Albert Johansson. He was sent down to the AHL and is currently in Grand Rapids, he’s been waiting for an opportunity. It may not come in Detroit.
The Rangers have a need, and Gustafsson is looking to play in the NHL. They are also familiar with his game as he played 76 games in New York last season, posting six goals and 31 points while earning trust on the power play. It would be here that the Rangers are seeking help in Fox’s absence.
This isn’t about replacing Fox entirely; it’s about finding a steady placeholder who can eat minutes and run the second unit until the star defenseman returns. For the Rangers, it’s an easy, low-cost reunion with a player who already knows their system.
For Detroit, moving Gustafsson would clear cap space and likely net a late-round pick or depth prospect.
Next: Woll Injury Update: Maple Leafs Bring In New Goaltender
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