The New York Rangers currently find themselves in a precarious situation. Despite having one of the highest projected cap hits in the NHL, the team has struggled throughout the 2025-26 season. In fact, New York would not make the playoffs if the season ended on January 8. This is mostly because the Rangers have averaged the fourth-fewest goals per game on the campaign.
Because of these offensive struggles, GM Chris Drury has been aggressive in trying to add firepower to the roster. New York recently attempted to bring in superstar Quinn Hughes via trade. The Vancouver Canucks, however, ultimately opted to go with a better package from the Minnesota Wild.
Since then, the Rangers have been linked with a move for Buffalo Sabres forward Alex Tuch. Nevertheless, Tuch is not the only forward on New York’s radar. The Athletic’s Vince Mercogliano is now claiming that the team has been “pushing hard” for Canucks winger Kiefer Sherwood.
The veteran two-way forward has impressed this season by racking up 22 points and over 200 hits. Because of his modest $1.5 million AAV and expiring contract, several clubs would love to add Sherwood to their roster ahead of the trade deadline. Vancouver is well aware of this and is hoping to receive a first-round pick and a young player in any deal.
Adding Kiefer Sherwood Would Make the New York Rangers Older
GettyKiefer Sherwood has been linked with several NHL teams in recent weeks.
As Mercogliano pointed out, Drury is clearly focused on adding a top-nine forward in the coming weeks. Sherwood, however, would be an interesting choice for the Rangers. The winger, while talented, turns 31 in March, and New York is already dealing with an aging roster. According to Hockey Reference, the Rangers are the 10th-oldest team in the league.
Vancouver’s asking price is also pretty steep for a player whose career high in points is just 40. It certainly appears as if interest in Sherwood is high at the moment due to his modest wages. His $1.5 million AAV could be easily absorbed by almost any NHL club. Nevertheless, Sherwood will be looking for a significant pay raise come the summer.
Although New York has the financial ability to give the forward an improved deal in the future, they may find better deals elsewhere. The Rangers could potentially use the high draft pick and young NHL player to get a younger, more reliable scorer. Ultimately, the 2026 free agent class is dwindling, and New York will likely continue to be aggressive in the trade market.
Rangers Could Soon Become Sellers in Trade Market
Despite the need for more forwards, New York’s bold trade plans could be altered due to a series of injuries within the team. Stars Adam Fox and Igor Shesterkin both recently hit IR and will be out of action for a little while. Mercogliano added to his report that the team’s lackluster play and injury list could force the Rangers to become sellers ahead of the trade deadline.
January will undoubtedly be an extremely important month for the team. If New York can stay afloat without the injured duo, they could very well make a major move or two. Nevertheless, if they decline in the standings, stars such as Artemi Panarin and Vincent Trocheck could very be dealt.
Rangers ‘Pushing Hard’ for Forward on Trade Block