After a rollercoaster NHL season, the New York Rangers‘ offseason is shaping up to be just as dizzying and drastic. Shortly after Mike Sullivan’s arrival, the Blueshirts shipped historic goal-scorer Chris Kreider to the Anaheim Ducks. Still, the shocking moves might not stop there. According to reports, star Mika Zibanejad could be next, as the 28-year-old has reached a decisive consensus with the organization.
Zibanejad is coming off a shaky 2024-25 NHL campaign, which was greatly defined by a lackluster first-half. The Swedish star’s decreasing production has been a main issue of concern in New York for some time now. After a career-best 91-point-production in the 2022-23 season, Zibanejad has failed to replicate that success.
In the 2024-25 NHL season, the Rangers’ star registered his second-lowest goals total since arriving in Manhattan in 2016. His performance was under heavy scrutiny all year long. Rumors of a divorce between the Broadway Blueshirts and Zibanejad were loud—and they haven’t quieted down since.
Now, as Sullivan enters the building in Pennsylvania Plaza, big changes are expected on the roster. New York has already parted ways with former captain Jacob Trouba, Kaapo Kakko, Ryan Lindgren, and Chris Kreider. Still, Zibanejad’s household name could join the list.
Mika Zibanejad #93 of the New York Rangers scores his hattrick goal at 7:44 of the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Madison Square Garden on January 02, 2022 in New York City.
According to reports from The Athletic’s Arthur Staple, Zibanejad’s camp and the Rangers have decided “moving on would be best” for both parties.
While the Rangers might feel working out a deal for Zibanejad is the best option, there are several aspects to keep in consideration. First and foremost, Zibanejad’s contract includes a no-movement clause, which impedes any trade unless the player waives that item.
In addition, even if Zibanejad decides to move out of New York City and into a new beginning in the NHL, his hefty contract could raise concerns for potential suitors. The Rangers signed their star to an eight-year, $68M extension in 2021, which runs through the 2029-30 season.
After the recent plummet in production, the Rangers face an even taller order. New York would have to retain a percentage of the salary in a potential trade for Zibanejad. Thus, even if both sides agree to part ways, several boxes still need to be checked for the deal to come to fruition.
