The New York Rangers wrapped up their weekend with a shutout win over the Nashville Predators but did so without veteran forward Reilly Smith, who was a healthy scratch for trade-related reasons as the deadline approaches.
With less than a week until the trade deadline, teams like the Rangers are assessing whether to buy or sell in preparation for the future. In New York’s case, they seem to be looking ahead.
According to Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts Podcast, Smith is not part of the Rangers’ long-term plans, and multiple teams have expressed interest in the 14-year NHL veteran.
“I couldn’t say for sure it was one particular team that was looking at Smith,” Friedman said. “I think there were a couple, some contenders.”
While Friedman did not specify which teams have been in discussions with the Rangers, it appears Smith will have an opportunity to compete for his second Stanley Cup.
Smith played six seasons with the Vegas Golden Knights as an original member of the franchise and played a key role in their 2023 championship run, posting 56 points (26 goals, 30 assists) in the regular season and adding 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) in 22 playoff games.
Friedman’s update did not identify any specific teams in the mix, but it does not seem likely that Smith will be traded to a Canadian club.
“I didn’t get the sense that it was Canada,” Friedman said. “It was probably states… I do think it’s a couple of contenders. We’ll see as the Rangers continue their sell-off of UFAs.”
Several Stanley Cup contenders based in the U.S. could be potential landing spots, including the Washington Capitals, New Jersey Devils, Colorado Avalanche, and defending champion Florida Panthers.
A return to Vegas could also be on the table, as Smith never wanted to leave the Golden Knights in the first place. Additionally, the Dallas Stars, where he began his NHL career, might be another team to watch.
There are several directions New York could take, but all signs indicate Smith is next on the move. In 58 games this season, he has recorded 10 goals and 19 assists for 29 points—solid production for a player brought in to fill a key right-wing role, provide secondary scoring, and add playoff experience.
However, with the Rangers failing to meet expectations this season, their postseason hopes are uncertain. As an impending unrestricted free agent, Smith is no longer essential to their plans, making a trade the logical next step to recoup value before he walks in free agency.