5 free agents the Rangers can sign to get back to the playoffs

With a ton of cap space, the New York Rangers are primed to have a huge offseason, which could get them back into the playoffs

This season didn’t go as planned for the New York Rangers. It’s remarkable goaltender Henrik Lundqvist played his first career game with his team eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs. However, maybe this season was for the best. It got Alain Vigneault fired. They also deeply improved their future and are in a prime position to make some big splashes in the free agent market.

Rebuilds aren’t tolerated for long in the Big Apple. So the Blue Shirts are going to feel pressure to improve quickly. Also, the Flyers have proven you can rebuild and contend at the same time. So really, there are no excuses for the men on Broadway to miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs again. Especially not as long as Lundqvist is in the net for the Rangers.

According to Cap Friendly, with the salary cap ceiling at $75 million, New York has a shade under $25 million of cap space. But if it increases to $80 million, that’s nearly $30 million of cap space. Granted, they also only have 13 players under contract. But this also gives them a lot of flexibility. Maybe they trade Vladislav Namestnikov. Perhaps the team decides to sell high on Ryan Spooner after he impressed after the trade deadline. Maybe fan favorite Mats Zuccarello finds himself off Broadway.

New York should target these five free agents, each of whom would help them make it back to the playoffs.

5. Rick Nash

When the Rangers traded Rick Nash to the Boston Bruins, they admitted they’re open to bringing him back once he hits free agency. The team likes him and he likes them, so the fit is obvious. Maybe with a different coach, Nash will be utilized more optimally. He’s a deadly force if used correctly. Vigneault rarely used him correctly. The Blue Shirts are a bit lacking at wing, so why not bring back an old friend who they’re familiar with?