Rangers trade rumors: Coyotes have serious interest in Derek Stepan

The Arizona Coyotes are reportedly extremely interested in New York Rangers center Derek Stepan. 

For a while now, the Arizona Coyotes have been searching for a franchise center. Christian Dvoark has potential, but they are far past needing potential. What the Coyotes need is pure talent. Which is why they’re being a bit aggressive in the trade market. According to TSN insider Bob McKenzie, Arizona is kicking the tires on New York Rangers center Derek Stepan.

Stepan would be an excellent fit in Arizona. He’s precisely what the Coyotes need, a number one center. Stepan plays during all situations and you can pencil him in for 50 points a season. While he’s not elite, his consistency and ability to take on top competition makes him a number one center. The Rangers are looking to get younger and rebuild their blue line, and with Stepan’s full no trade clause going into effect on July 1, they’re taking calls on him.

The big question is: what can the Coyotes offer New York? It’s worth noting Arizona has two first round picks, as they got the Minnesota Wild’s first rounder for Martin Hanzal. That first round pick could be in play. But the Rangers likely want a roster player, as they’re looking to contend for a Stanley Cup. Defenseman Oliver Ekman-Larsson is probably untouchable, but if New York sweetens the pot enough, he could be heading to Broadway.

Another possibility is the Coyotes give up the Wild’s first round pick along with an intriguing prospect. Anthony Duclair, who Arizona ironically got from the Rangers, could be an option. So could 2015 first round pick Dylan Strome, who has been relatively disappointing during his time with the Coyotes.

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Stepan’s $6.5 million cap hit won’t be an issue for Arizona, as they have plenty of cap space.