New York Rangers Could Move Physical Defenseman Before Deadline
The Rangers appear headed toward a seller’s role as the March 6 trade deadline approaches, and a young, hard-nosed defenseman could be the next piece on the move.
New York has already dealt star winger Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings, but league observers believe more transactions are coming. The Rangers may ultimately be one of the most active sellers in the league.
One name drawing attention is defenseman Braden Schneider. According to NHL insider Josh Erickson of Pro Hockey Rumors, the Tampa Bay Lightning could be a logical landing spot as they search for blue-line reinforcements.
Schneider, 24, is a pending restricted free agent, giving any acquiring team contractual control beyond this season. He is averaging a career-high 20:19 of ice time per game, posting two goals and 11 points in 57 contests while often taking on shutdown responsibilities. Though not known for offensive production, his underlying possession metrics have remained solid relative to his defensive-zone usage.
A former first-round pick, the 6-foot-3 defender has built his reputation on physical play and reliability in tough matchups. In Tampa Bay, where Erik Cernak currently handles heavy defensive minutes, Schneider could slot into a third-pairing role and potentially see more favorable situations.
Lightning Seeking Defensive Upgrade
Tampa Bay’s interest in strengthening the right side of its defense has been widely discussed, especially amid injuries along the blue line. NHL insider David Pagnotta recently noted that Lightning general manager Julien BriseBois prefers adding a player who can help both now and in the future — someone with term or team control. Schneider’s RFA status fits that description.
For New York, moving Schneider could represent an opportunity to capitalize on his value and add assets as part of a broader roster reset.
Rangers Focused on Retool, Not Rebuild
General manager Chris Drury has already signaled a shift in direction. In a message to fans prior to the Panarin trade, Drury emphasized that while recent seasons included memorable moments, the ultimate goal — bringing the Stanley Cup back to New York — remains unmet.
He stressed that the team will not undertake a full rebuild but instead pursue a retool centered on its core players and prospects. The strategy includes targeting younger talent, accumulating draft picks, and creating salary-cap flexibility, even if that means parting with familiar faces.
New York entered the Olympic break at 22-29-6, sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings — a position that has reinforced the urgency to reshape the roster ahead of the deadline.
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