Team: 2021-22 New York Rangers

Initial Creation Date: Jul. 24, 2021

Published: Jul. 24, 2021

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

In the wake of the weird Buch trade, it just has to happen now. I was never a huge fan of the idea, but it only makes sense to do it now. Perhaps it didn't happen last night given the weak draft, and BUF wants the picks for next year (if that's any better?). In addition, I'm banking off the Strome/Giordano rumors from earlier in the week... I'd have a hard time believing SEA is still shopping Gio with how much they are parading him around Seattle. But, you never know. Rumors and whatnot before were saying BUF wanted Miller to go in the expansion draft, so instead he goes here.

I know CapFriendly only lists him as a LW right now, but Goodrow has history playing center on SJS, and at least for NYR standards, had a pretty good faceoff percentage over there. So he plays 3C here now. Put Kreider in the top 6 based on who's hot, etc. It'll be musical wingers for a while until it's all figured out, but I like these lines.

Most importantly, enough is coming off the books next year (and enough cap space is left on the table) to adequately sign Zibanejad, Fox, and Kakko next off season, even if there is no raise. The bottom six is much more gritty and grindy, while the top six still has all the scoring touch. Overall I see this as a very competitive team, with trades that hopefully won't be too difficult to pull off. There's enough on the table to get a more veteran backup goalie or more 4th line players if necessary on 1 year deals.

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