Elliotte Friedman reveals the New York Rangers are set to acquire former 8th overall pick for free

The New York Rangers have added some toughness to the lineup, with the trade for Will Borgen.

But, is the blue line fully built as it should be? There are some gaps, as some players in the lineup have failed to uphold their duties to the squad.

One player who could add some offense to the lineup is former 8th overall pick, Adam Boqvist. He was waived by the Panthers today, after only skating in 18 games for the team and posting 6 points( 2 G, 4 A).

Boqvist signed with the Panthers during free agency for one year and is only earning $775K.

His previous stomping grounds were the Chicago Blackhawks, and Columbus Blue Jackets, where he was bought out by the team after a limited 35 game showing in 2023-2024.

Boqvist has a two-way style of play which benefitted him in the OHL as he played dominantly, scoring 60 points ( 20 G, 40 A) with the London Knights.

He was selected 8th overall in 2018 by the Blackhawks and would be traded during the 2021 NHL draft which sent him to Columbus in return for Seth Jones.

If the New York Rangers could find a way to tap into his true potential, the team could find the dominant defenseman he was in the OHL.

The team could benefit from the offensive play that set him apart in the Blue Jackets lineup early in his career in Columbus.

But for teams who lack defensive depth, he could be a sneaky addition in case injuries arise, or you have intentions of trading someone like Zac Jones who has a similar playstyle.

While he's never been known for his stifling defense, a stint in the AHL couldn't hurt. Or Peter Laviolette could put him on a pairing with a defenseman like Ryan Lindgren, sheltering him and setting him free to break out plays, and allowing him to shoot the puck.

Should GM Chris Drury make a claim for defenseman Adam Boqvist?