The New York Rangers have been in the spotlight recently due to a tough losing streak, with a record of 2-7-0 over their last nine games. As they struggle to secure wins, the Rangers have made it clear that they’re open to making changes. The first major move came when the Rangers traded Captain Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks. While there was considerable speculation surrounding that transaction, it appears the discussions with the Ducks may not be finished.
According to Responsible Gambler, the Rangers and Ducks had considered including Frank Vatrano in the return for Trouba. Vatrano, who played 22 regular-season games for the Rangers after the 2022 trade deadline, scored 13 points (8 goals, 5 assists) during his time in New York and added another 13 points (5 goals, 8 assists) in 20 playoff games. Though the Rangers were interested in Vatrano, they prioritized moving Trouba’s contract first. RG suggests that the Rangers might revisit discussions about Vatrano, potentially reviving a trade proposal that surfaced before the previous season’s deadline. “Last year at the trade deadline, Ducks GM Pat Verbeek was in New York and talked to Chris Drury about acquiring Frank Vatrano,” Jim Biringer notes.
At the time, the Rangers GM didn’t want to give up Kaapo Kakko, but that perspective seems to have shifted.” A source associated with RG indicates that the Rangers are definitely monitoring Vatrano, and a deal could happen before the year is out. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he joins the New York Rangers by the end of the year.” This season, the Rangers seem more prepared to part with significant players from their roster. Following the Trouba trade, Chris Kreider could be on the trading block, Kaapo Kakko has also become a possibility, and several other players might be facing the end of their time in New York.
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