Transaction: Rangers to target an unexpected player during free agency

Even then, winning the Presidents Trophy meant nothing, as the team will have to be reshaped by GM Chris Drury during the off-season, as many UFAs will walk and an RFA in Ryan Lindgren could be moved.

The glaring differences, in both teams were obvious as the Panthers played a stifling game at both ends, while the Rangers just weren't as deep of a team.

In order to strengthen the blueline and not break the bank, the team will have to think outside of the box.

One defender who wouldn't break the bank and provide good value would be the Columbus Blue Jackets, Nick Blankenburg.

The underappreciated 26-year-old defenseman could use a fresh start in 2024-25. During his time in Michigan, he was a leader, wearing the Captain's "C". In 2021-2022 prior to arriving in Columbus, he scored 29 points in 38 games with the Wolverines.

Blankenburg was out due to injury last season and hasn't been able to show off his talents with the Blue Jackets lately. It seems that the team hasn't even held a spot for him, as GM Don Waddell could let him walk into free agency.

The Rangers should take advantage of this and secure his services in a bottom-pairing, 7th D role in New York.

Should his role evolve, great but signing with a contending team like the Rangers means for now, accepting a lesser role in the defense.

Blankerburg's two-way style of play, and impressive skating skills make him an easy target. He is smart in the defensive zone and great on the rush, it just seems the Jackets and Blankenburg weren't a fit.

it seems wherever he signs, he will have a chip on his shoulder and something to prove. He may have to accept a league minimum in order to get a deal done, if that's all he wants, the Rangers should sign him at a minimum of two-years to see how it develops.

Blankenburg could be a steal!

Source: The Hockey Writers
Rangers Should Target Nick Blankenburg in Free Agency