Report: Rangers Linked to Veteran Maple Leaf Defenseman

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Joshua Deeds
October 11, 2024 (6:26 PM)

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The New York Rangers 2024-2025 regular season has begun, and the team may need reinforcements down the road.

As the Rangers look to improve upon their President's Trophy season in 2023-2024, and aim towards winning a Stanley Cup they are looking towards the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The veteran defenseman is currently without a contract and is looking to keep his NHL career alive, at age 41.

According to TSN's Pierre LeBrun, the New York Rangers are on the hunt for defenseman Mark Giordano.

Giordano still wants to play in the 2024-2025 NHL regular season according to agent Rich Winters, who spoke with Kevin McGran of the Toronto Star, back in June.

«Mark has made the decision that he's playing for a few more years,» Winter said. «He feels very confident. He's been talking to a lot of people who tell him, 'Don't quit until they make you.'

"He clearly wants to play.»

Giordano has 1,148 games of NHL play under his belt and is still trying to chase an elusive Stanley Cup. He was unfortunately scratched during the team's series against the Boston Bruins.

"Giordano continues to chase an elusive Stanley Cup-making it a priority for him to try to land a depth job with one of the teams in contender mode," LeBrun wrote. "The Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers are among those seen as appealing possibilities."

The 41-year-old played half an NHL season last year, despite his injury woes, and wants to find a way to a cup with a new team.

The former Norris Trophy winner could still provide value despite not playing night, as he could provide veteran leadership and mentor rookies in the lineup, such as Victor Mancini.

Giordano may be well past his prime, but he's still got a lot left to contribute and could do so for the Rangers if GM Chris Drury offers him a contract.