The New York Rangers suffered another defeat, falling 5-2 to the Florida Panthers. This loss drops their record to 4-14-0 since Nov. 19. Could things possibly get any worse for the Rangers? Have they given up on their coach? This seems to be the case, at least according to NHL insiders, including Frank Seravalli and Larry Brooks.
Laviolette’s Job in Jeopardy
Peter Laviolette being fired seems like the next logical move. However, giving this same core of players yet another coach in hopes of turning things around may not be the most sensible approach. That said, coaching changes are often the go-to solution in the NHL; GMs only have a little leeway before firing the coach becomes their top option.
It’s true—it looks like this team has quit on Laviolette. But is it truly a reflection on the coaching, or is it on the management? Let’s not forget that Chris Drury sent the 31 other GMs a memo less than six weeks ago saying they were “open for business.“ That quickly became public knowledge, and since then, the Rangers have struggled badly. Sadly, it’ll be Laviolette who gets let go before Drury is dismissed.
Should the Rangers Make Trades Now or In the Offseason?
When to make their move(s) is the biggest question they face. Do they try to make a few more deals now that they have available cap space, or do they wait until the offseason?
At this point, they have to do something. Yes, they have already traded Jacob Trouba and Kaapo Kakko, but others can be dealt. A few players who could generate interest are listed below:
- Reilly Smith: $3.7M/1YR
- Chris Kreider: $6.5M/3YRS
- K’Andre Miller: $3.8M/1YR
- Ryan Lindgren: $4.5M/1YR
- Will Borgen: $2.7M/1YR
Then there are the top players on their team that would have other teams lining up to acquire them. However, they carry no-move clauses. Vincent Trocheck is a player to keep an eye on. All 31 other NHL teams would likely do anything they could to acquire his services. Of course, he would need to approve the trade.
The Rangers do have options. At this point, it likely feels like there’s no end in sight. Just remember, Rangers fans, there is. It just may take a major shake-up via trade or firing to get this team back on track.
Next: Calgary Flames: Buyers or Sellers at the Trade Deadline?
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