The New York Rangers and Colorado Avalanche have agreed to a trade involving two key stars from both teams. While the final details are still being ironed out, the deal appears to help the Rangers avoid losing two pending unrestricted free agents for nothing.
Top star once a key defensive piece for the Rangers, has battled injuries that have impacted his performance. He signed a one-year, $4 million contract last summer, setting him up for free agency this offseason. Though his play has declined, the Avalanche hope a more sheltered role in their system will allow him to be effective. He originally joined the Rangers as part of the Rick Nash trade and was a steady presence early in his tenure before recent struggles.
Top veteran returned to the Rangers after bouncing around the league but has struggled to secure a consistent fourth-line role due to the team’s youth movement. In Colorado, he will provide penalty-killing depth, while his departure in New York could open opportunities for young players like Arthur Kaliyev, Brett Berard, and Brennan Othmann.
On the other side of the trade, de Haan is a veteran blueliner capable of playing on either side, but he, too, is set to become a free agent at season’s end. His arrival may be a temporary solution until K’Andre Miller is fully healthy, and the Rangers could potentially flip him for draft picks before the trade deadline.
Parssinen has shown glimpses of promise but has yet to establish himself as a consistent NHL player. The Rangers have room for him if he can prove himself, but he is not a clear upgrade over their current depth. He could, however, provide bottom-six versatility and contribute to the second power-play unit.
This trade appears to be just the beginning of a busy trade deadline for Rangers GM Chris Drury and his staff as they look to retool their roster for a playoff push.