As the New York Rangers look to shake things up this offseason, one notable name being floated in trade discussions is veteran forward Mika Zibanejad.
A proposed trade, generated by a user on PuckPedia’s PuckGM tool, suggests a significant deal between division rivals the Rangers and the Carolina Hurricanes:
Rangers receive:
- Jesperi Kotkaniemi
- 2026 first-round pick (via Dallas)
Hurricanes receive:
- Mika Zibanejad
- Adam Edstrom
This hypothetical swap would allow both teams to move on from hefty contracts. The Rangers would gain a first-round pick as an asset and Kotkaniemi, a 23-year-old center in the fourth year of a seven-year, $38.56 million contract. Though he hasn’t lived up to that price tag, he posted 33 points (12 goals, 21 assists) over 78 games last season and could slot in as a reliable third-line option while adding youth to the lineup.
Carolina would land Zibanejad, a proven top-line center, still under contract for four more years on an eight-year, $68 million deal. Zibanejad tallied 62 points (20 goals, 42 assists) in 82 games and could provide a much-needed offensive boost. The Hurricanes would also acquire Adam Edstrom, a 6-foot-7 forward and pending restricted free agent, who notched 9 points in 51 games last season and could bring size and depth to their fourth line.
Zibanejad a Trade Candidate?
According to NHL insider Arthur Staple of The Athletic, the Rangers are expected to explore Zibanejad trade options as part of a broader roster overhaul after missing the playoffs. Staple also mentioned Chris Kreider as a potential candidate, though trading him may be more difficult due to his age, back issues, and partial no-trade clause.
Staple highlighted that Zibanejad’s full no-move clause and heavily front-loaded contract make a buyout nearly impossible, meaning any trade would require the player’s approval.
Zibanejad Focused on Future in New York
Despite trade chatter, Zibanejad appears to be preparing for the upcoming season in New York. He recently spoke with new Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan and expressed optimism about working together.
“I had a conversation with him,” Zibanejad said. “He’s a coach with a lot of experience and success. I’m looking forward to continuing our talks.”
Though nothing is certain, Zibanejad’s future in New York remains a topic to watch as the offseason progresses.
