The New York Rangers missed the postseason this year and they're now entering a crucial offseason.
New York brought in former Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan to lead the team forward, signaling a changing of the guard.
But in order for the Rangers to get back to being Stanley Cup contenders, the front office will need to add some more talent to Sullivan's roster.
The free-agent pool seems to be pretty strong this year, and New York could be a player on the open market.NHL writer Adam Herman of Bleacher Report has listed the Rangers as a landing spot for free agent Mitch Marner. Marner is expected to be the biggest name on the market and could leave the Toronto Maple Leafs this summer.
"It's New York. They love flashy moves and big changes are coming. Chris Kreider's departure is all but inevitable. Artemi Panarin is in the final year of his contract. Could the team and player decide to part ways this summer?
"The Rangers also signed Alexis Lafreniére to a seven-year contract last Fall, but his play this season did not live up to expectations. The Rangers need a fresh start, and so does Marner. New York isn't the path of least resistance, but GM Chris Drury can make room for him if he identifies Marner as worth the effort."
Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews (34) celebrates with forward Mitch Marner (16) after scoring a goal during the first period against the Arizona Coyotes at Mullett Arena.
Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Adding a player like Marner could drastically improve this Rangers club and give them more of a legitimate chance to make some noise in the Eastern Conference.
Marner was great for Toronto this past season, putting up 27 goals and 102 points.
New York has the tools to be very successful, and if they were to add someone like Marner, a postseason return could be in play. There will be other teams vying for his services, but don't sleep on the Rangers being very active this summer.
