NHL Rumors: NY Rangers Linked to Blue Jackets Defenseman

The New York Rangers have picked up their play as the season has gone on, and now they stand a very good chance of making the postseason because of it. As a result, they are expected to be among the NHL’s buyers at this year’s trade deadline, as they are looking like legitimate contenders. Yet, the left side of their defensive group could certainly use a boost, and one player who could be on the radar because of this is Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov.

Gavrikov is one of the top defenseman rental options, so he naturally is getting a lot of attention on the trade market already. The Blue Jackets are likely going to score a very solid return for the veteran defenseman, as he can play top-four minutes and provides decent offense to go along with very strong defensive reliability. When noting these characteristics, it is fair to state that he would be a major addition to the Rangers if acquired.

With the Rangers looking to compete for a Stanley Cup this year, it would be wise for them to add to the left side of their defensive group. On paper, Gavrikov seems like a perfect fit, but we will have to wait and see if these two Metropolitan teams end up making a move from here.