The New York Rangers are undeniably in a “win-now” window. With a core featuring elite talent like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, Igor Shestyorkin, and Adam Fox, the expectation from ownership and the passionate fanbase is nothing less than a Stanley Cup. While the Rangers have made significant strides and come close in recent years, they’ve consistently fallen short. To push them over the top, General Manager Chris Drury needs to be aggressive and strategic in the upcoming free agency period.
The 2025 unrestricted free agent (UFA) class presents an opportunity for the Rangers to address key needs and inject the final pieces required for a championship run. With approximately $12 million to $15 million in projected cap space (depending on various reports and pending RFA deals like K’Andre Miller’s), Drury will need to spend wisely to maximize impact while navigating potential extensions for core players down the line. The market for top-tier talent is always competitive, but certain players stand out as ideal fits for the Rangers’ specific requirements.
Here are three free agents the New York Rangers should aggressively target to solidify their Cup aspirations:
The Rangers recently acquired J.T. Miller, and bringing in one of his former linemates could rekindle some fantastic chemistry and provide a much-needed boost to the top-six forward group, particularly on the right wing.1 Boeser, a pure goal-scorer, is set to become a UFA in 2025 (turning 28 in February 2025), and he fits a crucial need for the Rangers: consistent, high-volume scoring from a winger who can play with their top centers.
The departure of Chris Kreider (as per a recent fictional trade in a previous prompt, indicating a potential need for a top-six left wing) or simply the desire for more offensive firepower necessitates a player of Boeser’s caliber. He has consistently demonstrated a nose for the net, a quick release, and an ability to convert on scoring chances.2 Playing alongside a playmaker like Mika Zibanejad or even J.T. Miller (if Miller is used at center) could unlock even greater offensive potential for Boeser.
Beyond goal-scoring, Boeser also brings a strong two-way game to his skillset. He’s not a liability defensively and can contribute to special teams. The Rangers need more players who can be relied upon in all situations, especially in tight playoff games where every shift matters. His age (28 by the time free agency hits) means he’s still in his prime, offering both immediate impact and several years of high-level performance.
The concern with Boeser would be his price tag, as he’s expected to command a significant cap hit (potentially in the $6.5-$7 million range). However, if the Rangers are serious about winning, investing in a proven top-six goal-scorer is a necessity. His ability to elevate a line and provide a consistent offensive threat would be invaluable for a team aiming for the Cup.
While the Rangers have Adam Fox on the right side of their defense, and the recent fictional acquisition of a “star defenseman” would certainly help, the left side of their defensive corps has been a fluctuating area. The future of K’Andre Miller, a restricted free agent in 2025, is uncertain, with reports suggesting the Rangers are open to listening to offers for him to create cap flexibility. Even if Miller is re-signed, adding a veteran, reliable left-shot defenseman would provide invaluable stability, depth, and a more physical presence.
Vladislav Gavrikov, who will be 29 when free agency opens (turning 30 in November 2025), is exactly the type of shutdown defenseman the Rangers need.3 He’s not flashy offensively, but he excels in his own end, plays a heavy game, blocks shots, and provides a calming presence. He’s tough, disciplined, and consistently plays against the opposition’s top lines. This kind of defensive reliability is crucial in the playoffs, where goals are hard to come by and preventing them becomes paramount.
Gavrikov’s acquisition would allow the Rangers to have two formidable shutdown pairings. Imagine him alongside Adam Fox in a top pairing, or anchoring a second pairing with Braden Schneider. This would free up Fox to take more offensive risks, knowing he has a rock-solid partner covering for him. Gavrikov’s presence would also provide leadership and experience to the younger defensemen like Schneider and potentially Matthew Robertson.
His previous AAV was around $5.875 million, which would be a significant but manageable investment for the Rangers, especially if they move K’Andre Miller or another contract. Gavrikov consistently makes smart plays, limits turnovers, and thrives in high-pressure situations, making him an ideal fit for a Cup contender.
The Rangers’ center depth, while talented with Mika Zibanejad and Vincent Trocheck, could always benefit from more grit, versatility, and playoff-proven performance. With recent reports suggesting a potential shift for Mika Zibanejad to the wing, the need for a strong, two-way center becomes even more pressing. Sam Bennett, turning 29 in June 2025, fits this mold perfectly and could be the ideal third-line center or even push for a second-line role if needed.4
Bennett is a powerhouse. He plays a physical, hard-nosed game, drives to the net, and is incredibly effective in tight spaces. He’s a strong face-off taker and excels at retrieving pucks in the offensive zone. Most importantly, he has proven himself to be a clutch playoff performer, playing a massive role in the Florida Panthers’ recent Stanley Cup victory. His ability to elevate his game when it matters most is exactly what the Rangers need.
If Zibanejad moves to the wing, Bennett could slot in as the second-line center, providing a different dynamic from Trocheck. Alternatively, as a third-line center, he would make the Rangers incredibly deep down the middle, creating matchup nightmares for opposing teams. His physicality and tenacity would bring an edge to the Rangers’ lineup that is often desired in the playoffs.
Bennett’s current contract is relatively modest at $4.425 million AAV. While he’s due for a raise given his playoff performance, he might be a more cost-effective option than other top-tier centers in the UFA class (like John Tavares, who will be 35 and commands a much higher salary). His blend of skill, physicality, and playoff pedigree makes him an extremely attractive target for a team looking to win now.
While these three players represent ideal targets, the Rangers’ pursuit will not be without challenges:
- Salary Cap: As mentioned, the Rangers have cap space, but signing three high-impact UFAs will require careful management. Potential RFA deals (like Will Cuylle, Braden Schneider) and other internal extensions will factor in. Chris Drury may need to be creative with contract structures or make further moves to free up additional cap space.
- Competition: All three players will be highly sought after in the UFA market. The Rangers will need to offer competitive contracts and leverage their status as a desirable destination in a major market with a clear path to contention.
- Fit and Chemistry: While these players address needs on paper, ensuring they fit seamlessly into the Rangers’ locker room and system under coach Mike Sullivan (hired May 2025) will be crucial. Bennett’s intense style, in particular, would need to mesh with the existing culture.
In conclusion, for the New York Rangers to genuinely be serious about winning the Stanley Cup, they need to be bold and decisive in free agency. Targeting Brock Boeser for a top-six scoring punch, Vladislav Gavrikov for defensive reliability, and Sam Bennett for a playoff-tested, two-way center would address critical needs and significantly elevate their chances. These strategic additions, coupled with their existing core talent, would signal an undeniable “all-in” approach, putting the Rangers squarely in contention for hockey’s ultimate prize.
