Quoting: ICantHaveFunWithMyUsername
Why would the Rangers go after Demko and Boeser? This group is already set for both forwards and goalies.
Simply put: the deal fits the needs of the other teams. Detroit has been looking at Demko for a while; this deal facilitates the Red Wings getting the goalie, second line center (once Strome is signed) and the extra cap hit they need to reach the cap floor.
For Vancouver, teams don't love the idea of trading a first round pick for Boeser; but rather than get a prospect they'll wait for, solely, Benning can get both a solid, young D prospect and a second round pick as well as the top 4 D he wants, in DeAngelo.
For the Rangers: by facilitating this deal, they reverse a deal that never should've been made (Smith for a '15 3rd and '16 2nd). As well, they use Strome as an asset and allow Detroit to get a player who can keep them from rushing youth for a year or two; also gives a playmaker to Robby Fabbri. Gives DeAngelo a very good team to play for, while allowing Fox to be a top-4 D, uninhibited.
The Wings are still three years away from contention; giving them a top six to build from isn't a bad thing. Giving them a young goalie to continue building with, is not a bad thing; and grabbing a top six forward in the process doesn't hurt.
The Canucks are a solid young team; they are using assets to fill out an even better team.
The Rangers matching the needs of another team, while balancing their own IS asset management. That includes Hronek, whom even if you took him out of the deal, the proposal still works.
No team got blown out in this deal. EVERYONE got a fit to their team, given their current roster.
Also, some of you will be tempted to wonder why I've only responded to one of you.