Not Eichel

Team: 2021-22 New York Rangers

Initial Creation Date: Jul. 28, 2021

Published: Jul. 28, 2021

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

The trades are based off of internet chatter, could absolutely just be smoke and no fire. I admittedly didn't include anything in return, but the Rangers would be looking to hold onto as much cap room as possible for future RFA retention, so they'd be selling low on both players, like the Buch trade.

The Danault contract is probably a stretch, but there's room to bump up to 6.25 if that gets it done. If Panarin can sprinkle the same pixie dust on Danault as he did Strome, Danault is an upgrade in every other area over Strome. Hard to play against is exactly what I would describe it as when a Selke finalist from the opposite team is complimenting your shut down center.

Nick Ritchie fills out a completely revamped 4th line in the vein of what Drury wants. They would be capable of some offensive output, defensively responsible and would absolutely test the end boards in every arena around the league. They are also no strangers to dropping the gloves, I believe they've all fought each other at some point!

If Gauthier can't hack 3 RW, you move Blais up, and Rooney into 4 RW.

Nils gets his roommate.

For me, the biggest question is, can the two kids produce at a 1st line clip with Mika? If they can't, then you've gotta move Panarin up, which hurts Danault. Maybe Krieder gets up to 2 LW in that case.

Either way, there's flexibility here, the 4th liners can easily jump up if someone isn't playing well. There's more cap space for the future than any Eichel scenario.... and they are much tougher and harder to play against.

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