In the fast-paced world of NHL free agency, big names like Steven Stamkos, Elias Lindholm, and Jonathan Marchessault have already found new homes, but there are still some quality players available on the market. For the New York Rangers, who are looking to free up valuable cap space to retain key players like Artemi Panarin, KāAndre Miller, and Alexis Lafreniere, finding affordable options is crucial. Here are five free agents that the Rangers should consider targeting in the 2024 NHL Free Agency period.
First up is a 25-year-old right-winger from the Seattle Kraken, who has shown promise on the offensive end. In the 2021-22 season with the Oilers, he posted a career-high 41 points, with 20 goals and 21 assists in 81 games. Known for his accuracy, this player boasts a shooting percentage of 13.1% this season with the Kraken, tallying eight goals and eight assists in 59 games. With great potential still ahead of him, he could provide depth to the Rangersā forward lines. Despite his impressive stats, the Kraken did not issue a qualifying offer to him by June 30, 2024.
Next on the list is a young forward from Pasadena, California, who could bolster the Rangersā offensive depth. This 22-year-old Maple Leaf had a breakout season with 14 goals and 13 assists in just 56 games. Named to the OHL First All-Star Team in 2020, he is certainly a player to watch in the upcoming season. However, there may be some uncertainty surrounding his future, as it has been reported that he has expressed interest in being traded from the Leafs.
Moving on to a veteran presence, James van Riemsdyk, a left-winger set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2024. With a qualifying offer worth $813,750 and a modest cap hit of $796,667 in the 2023-24 season, he could provide experience and skill to the Rangersā lineup.
Last but not least, Kyle Okposo, coming off a Stanley Cup victory with the Florida Panthers, offers a wealth of experience and scoring ability. The 36-year-old Minnesota native recorded 12 goals and 10 assists in 61 games with the Buffalo Sabres before joining the Panthers for their playoff run. With a cap hit of $2.5M in the previous season, Okposo could be a valuable addition to the Rangersā lower lines, bringing leadership and a winning mentality to the team.
As the Rangers look to navigate the remainder of the free agency market, these five players could offer quality depth and talent to their roster. With some key decisions to be made in the coming weeks, it will be interesting to see which direction the team chooses to go in building their squad for the upcoming season.
