In an article dated June 26, 2024, Lou Orlando of Forever Blueshirts discusses the potential benefits for the New York Rangers in pursuing a trade for defenseman Jakob Chychrun from the Ottawa Senators as NHL free agency looms. Orlando highlights that while much attention is on roster construction for a Cup-contending team under general manager Chris Drury, the trade market offers intriguing possibilities, with Chychrun reportedly on the market.
According to Bruce Garrioch of the Ottawa Citizen, the Senators are exploring options for Chychrun, seeking either a first- and second-round pick or a high-end prospect in exchange. This follows previous interest from the Rangers during the 2022-23 season, when Chychrun was acquired by Ottawa from Arizona for a substantial draft pick package.
Orlando emphasizes that the Rangers, having recently freed up significant salary cap space by waiving Barclay Goodrow, are in a prime position to pursue impactful upgrades. While attention has focused on bolstering the forward ranks, particularly a top-six right wing, Orlando argues that addressing defensive needs should not be overlooked, especially given their struggles against top teams like the Florida Panthers in the playoffs.
Chychrun, known for his ability to move the puck effectively, could offer a versatile solution to the Rangers’ defensive lineup, capable of playing on either the left or right side. This flexibility is particularly valuable considering the uncertain future of current defensemen like Erik Gustafsson and Ryan Lindgren.
Despite Chychrun’s minus-30 plus-minus rating with the Senators, Orlando cites advanced metrics indicating his defensive capabilities are solid, ranking above average in various categories according to Evolving Hockey. Moreover, Chychrun’s offensive contributions, including a career-high 41 points in a challenging offensive environment with Ottawa, underscore his potential value to the Rangers’ blue line.
Orlando acknowledges the Senators’ recent acquisition of goaltender Linus Ullmark and their aspirations to improve, which might complicate negotiations for Chychrun. Nevertheless, he argues that Chychrun’s acquisition could address multiple needs for the Rangers without committing them to a long-term contract, as the defenseman’s current deal expires after the upcoming season.
Financially, adding Chychrun would fit within the Rangers’ current cap space constraints, positioning them to pursue other opportunities in future free agent classes. Orlando suggests that such a move aligns with Drury’s broader strategy of building a sustainable contender while maintaining flexibility for future roster adjustments.
Concluding, Orlando underscores the potential value of Chychrun’s acquisition to the Rangers, viewing him as a pragmatic solution to their defensive shortcomings. While acknowledging the steep asking price from Ottawa, including potentially high draft picks or top prospects, he argues that the immediate benefits of Chychrun’s skill set and the flexibility it offers in future roster planning make the trade proposition compelling for New York.
In summary, Orlando’s analysis for Forever Blueshirts paints a picture of Jakob Chychrun as a transformative asset for the Rangers, addressing crucial defensive needs while aligning with the team’s long-term strategic goals.
