The New York Rangers are coming off a disappointing season and are expected to make bold moves this offseason to revamp their roster.
After missing the playoffs just a year removed from winning the Presidents’ Trophy for the NHL’s best record, the Rangers have been rumored to be exploring major changes. While potential trades involving stars like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Chris Kreider have been floated, the latest reports suggest New York is now targeting a high-profile addition in free agency.
According to NHL insiders Shayna Goldman and Murat Ates of The Athletic, the Rangers are reportedly interested in signing Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers, who just wrapped up a seven-year, $42 million contract.
“If the Rangers can free up enough cap space, Ehlers could be an ideal addition,” the article states. “He’s a left-shot winger with experience playing on the right, including a dominant stretch alongside Mark Scheifele and Mathieu Perreault back in 2019.
“Ehlers could fill Kreider’s role if the Rangers move on from their longtime winger, or slot in on the right side while keeping Zibanejad at center,” the article continues. “Regardless of where he lines up, Ehlers would greatly benefit a power play that fell short of expectations in 2024-25.”
Ehlers would likely slot into the Rangers’ top six and offer a new offensive dynamic. He tallied 24 goals and 39 assists for 63 points in 69 games with Winnipeg last season.
Rangers GM Confident Team Can Reach Goals
Although New York had a disappointing season, the Rangers decided to extend general manager Chris Drury’s contract.
Drury is now responsible for reshaping the roster and turning the Rangers into a Stanley Cup contender. Following the announcement, he emphasized his commitment to the team’s offseason objectives.
“I’m honored to sign this extension and continue in this role with the team I’ve always supported,” Drury said. “When I took on this job nearly four years ago, I said there’s no organization in hockey like this one. I’m excited to keep working toward our goals for next season and beyond.”
Drury’s first major move of the offseason was hiring highly regarded coach Mike Sullivan. His focus now shifts to the NHL Draft and free agency, with the Rangers expected to be a team to watch closely.
What is Ehlers Expected to Get in Free Agency?
Ehlers is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents this offseason. The standout winger is likely due for a salary increase from his current contract.
According to AFP Analytics, Ehlers is projected to land a six-year deal in free agency, carrying an average annual value (AAV) of \$8.1 million — totaling \$48.6 million over the duration of the contract.
If he reaches unrestricted free agency, however, Ehlers might secure an even bigger deal. He could attract a maximum seven-year contract, especially with multiple teams likely to pursue him, potentially sparking a bidding war.
Throughout his NHL career, Ehlers has played in 674 games, tallying 225 goals and 295 assists for a total of 520 points.
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