Rangers’ Summer of Non-Moves: Trouba Stays, Shesterkin Waits, and New York Prepares for 2024

As September arrives and hockey towns buzz with anticipation, players begin trickling in for informal skates ahead of training camp. While much has been discussed about the Pittsburgh Penguins’ busy offseason, it’s time to shift our focus to the rest of the Metropolitan Division, starting with last season’s champions—the New York Rangers.

The Rangers’ summer has been defined more by what didn’t happen than what did. Notably, the team approached their captain, Jacob Trouba, regarding the teams on his partial no-trade clause, following the expiration of his full no-movement clause. Rumors even surfaced in the New York Post about a possible buyout, a move that ultimately didn’t materialize but clearly indicated the Rangers’ readiness to part ways with the veteran defenseman and his hefty $8 million salary. Despite these tensions, Trouba will return to Manhattan for the 2023-24 season, albeit under the shadow of knowing the organization would prefer he wasn’t on their roster.

Another major non-development for the Rangers was the absence of a contract extension for their star goaltender, Igor Shesterkin. With his contract set to expire after the 2024-25 season, it’s widely expected that both sides will reach an agreement. However, Shesterkin is poised to seek a significant pay raise, likely aiming to position himself among the league’s highest-paid goalies. The outcome of restricted free agent Jeremy Swayman’s negotiations in Boston could play a pivotal role in setting the market for Shesterkin’s next deal.

Aside from these high-profile situations, it was a relatively quiet offseason for the Rangers by their usual standards. They made a shrewd move by acquiring Reilly Smith from Pittsburgh at a 75% salary retention, boosting their forward group. On the departure front, the Rangers bid farewell to their usual batch of rental players, including Alex Wennberg and Jack Roslovic, who were brought in for the playoff push. They also gained some cap relief when veteran Barclay Goodrow was claimed off waivers by San Jose, and lost defenseman Erik Gustafsson to free agency. However, the latter loss may be offset by promoting young defenseman Zac Jones to a full-time NHL role. Veteran Blake Wheeler also exited via free agency.

In terms of additions, the Rangers brought in Sam Carrick from free agency—a minor move in an otherwise subdued summer. Meanwhile, restricted free agents Ryan Lindgren and Braden Schneider were signed to short-term deals (one and two years, respectively), partially due to the inability to clear Trouba’s salary off the books. While these shorter contracts may come with higher costs down the road, they shouldn’t pose an immediate issue. Top prospect Brennan Othmann is also expected to make his NHL debut sooner rather than later.

In summary, the Rangers’ offseason was marked by restraint and a few significant non-moves that may have more impact in the future than in the immediate season ahead.