The New York Rangers will undoubtedly be targeting a right winger when the free agency market opens on July 1st. There are numerous players that the Blueshirts could target, but finding the perfect fit for the first line is a crucial task for Chris Drury. With the market set to open in just over a week, time is running low to decide who will be signed.
Rangers could aim for a proven veteran forward
Tyler Toffoli has not regressed in his career despite being 32 years old. This season, the veteran forward managed to tally 55 points in 79 games played. He’s proven that he can still produce at a consistent rate, making him a solid candidate for the Rangers to look at.
At 32 years old, Toffoli is likely looking for a contract with a decent term to end his career. The Blueshirts would be wise to avoid signing him for more than two or three seasons, but if Drury can lower the AAV as much as possible, it wouldn’t be a terrible decision to give Toffoli what he’s looking for.
Could the Rangers reunite with a healthy Patrick Kane?
After the Blueshirts acquired Patrick Kane at the 2022 trade deadline, fans were disappointed by the outcome. He managed to score at a decent rate, but his lower body injury made his impact less in the playoffs. Kane later signed with the Detroit Red Wings, but will now be a free agent once again this summer.
Now that Kane is fully healthy, the Rangers could look to give the superstar a second try in New York. He proved that he is still a valuable player this season in Detroit, but there are fears that he may let the Rangers down again if given the opportunity. It’s a risky move, but one that Drury should definitely consider.
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The Leafs have a player who matches the Rangers’ exact needs
Tyler Bertuzzi will become a free agent on July 1st after a solid season with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He tallied 43 points in 80 games, but it’s not his point totals that make him an attractive option for the Rangers.
Not only is Bertuzzi a younger option at 29, but his skillset matches exactly what Drury should be looking for this summer. He’s a bigger, more physical forward who isn’t afraid to engage in puck battles along the boards.
Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad suffered this season by remaining too soft, making the addition of Bertuzzi to their line a possible perfect fit. If there’s anyone who should be number one on Drury’s list, it should definitely be a physical forward like Bertuzzi.
