The New York Rangers are entering the offseason as a clear team to watch. With the Rangers in the middle of a retool, the expectation is that they will be continuing to make changes to their roster during the summer.
The Rangers traded several players during the 2025-26 season, and it is very possible that more could be dealt this summer. One specific Ranger who could be worth keeping an eye on is star forward Mika Zibanejad.
Questions about the 33-year-old’s future in New York have come up as the Rangers retool. If Zibanejad is willing to waive his no-movement clause, he would likely generate a lot of interest after posting 34 goals and 78 points in 81 games this season.
Due to this, let’s look at three teams that could look to acquire Zibanejad this offseason.
Zibanejad Would Give the Wild a Much-Needed Top-Six Center
When looking at the Wild’s roster, their biggest goal this offseason should be to add another top-six center. Due to this, it would make a lot of sense if they kicked tires on Zibanejad this summer. This is especially so when noting that they should be in their Stanley Cup window for multiple more seasons.
If the Wild landed Zibanejad, he would be a strong fit on either their first or second line. This would be huge for Minnesota, so they certainly should be watched in the Zibanejad sweepstakes during this offseason.
Bruins Could Use Zibanejad As They Look for a First-Line Center
One of the Bruins’ top objectives this offseason should be to add a first-line center. It is clear that the Bruins are not going to take that next step and become contenders if they do not improve down the middle. Due to this, it would be understandable if they made a push for Zibanejad.
If the Bruins acquired Zibanejad, he could slot perfectly as their new first-line center with David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie. This trio would have the potential to make some real magic together, so the Bruins could be a team to watch when it comes to Zibanejad. This is especially so when noting that this year’s free-agent class is not going to offer many notable centers for Boston to consider.
Mammoth Could Look to Make a Blockbuster Deal for Zibanejad
The Mammoth took a major step in the right direction this season by making the playoffs. Now, Utah should be looking to build on their momentum by having a busy summer. One of their biggest needs is another star at the center position, and a veteran like Zibanejad could be a strong fit on their roster because of it.
Zibanejad would give the Mammoth’s top six a major boost if acquired by the Rangers due to his high offensive skill. He would also give them an impactful veteran in their room, which would not be a bad thing at all for a Mammoth club on the rise. With this, the Mammoth could very well be a team to keep an eye on when it comes to Zibanejad this summer.
NHL Rumors: 3 Trade Destinations for Rangers’ Mika Zibanejad