REALISTIC Deadline Options

Alright so I think it's time for some trade possibilities that aren't completely outlandish. The Rangers aren't trading Gaborik and they aren't getting Stastny, but I think there are a few guys the Rangers could (and possibly should) be looking at. Steve Zipay has reported that Sather is willing to part with a prospect and one of two second round picks currently in the Ranger's possession if a deal comes around that addresses the Rangers current issues and does not compromise the core of the team. Lets take a look at a few possible remedies.

Ian White

There have been rumblings for says now that he is on the outs in Carolina already. He was even excluded from the team's morning skate yesterday and in a statement the team suggested that they may trade him if they get the deal they're looking for. That should be the Rangers cue. White is a solid puck-moving defenseman who could definitely improve the team's anemic powerplay. He's bounced around a bit, and that may have something to do with his small stature, but the guy can shoot the puck and make plays from the back; something the Rangers have lacked since Del Zotto has fallen off the face of the earth.


Now some of you may be saying what about Kaberle, he's available and highly talented, plus hes a UFA at the seasons end, but there are several reasons why Kaberle is NOT the best option. The biggest thing with Kaberle is that he is going to be very expensive. At the deadline, offensive defenseman are a HOT commodity, and Kaberle is an excellent talent that the Leafs are going to sell very high. Second off, he brings no physicality to the table. The Rangers have become a hard working, physical team, and if a player your bringing in can't play that way, then stay away. Lastly, he has no shot from the point. The man is all assists, and while that may complement some teams (Bruins for example, Kaberle feeding Chara on the point on the powerplay is a scary thought), the Rangers need a guy who can blast it from the point. White can do both, and I have a feeling he wont be too expensive, certainly not anywhere near the price of Kaberle.


Stephen Weiss

A first line center. No, not a premier, all-star center, but a damn good one indeed. Florida is probably going to have a fire-sale this deadline and Stephen Weiss looks like he may be on the move. He's a great passer of the puck and a solid two-way guy who could bring some spring back to Gaborik's step. He though is also not very physical, but if he would connect with Gaborik and they could get solid offensive chemistry going, I don't think his lack fof physicality is going to play too much of a role.

Weiss also has two years left on his contract. This could be a problem if the Rangers actually do have intentions of signing Brad Richards this off-season. But if they don't and the price is right, Weiss is a good option up the middle that could give the team the closest thing to a first line center since Michael Nylander.


Cory Stillman

Yes, he is an old man now, but he can still play. Stillman has also won the Cup with the Hurricanes and Lightening (with Torts) in back-to-back years. A crafty vet may help the Rangers offense, especially come playoff time. The guy knows how to get it down in a grueling playoff series and he would provide some much needed leadership; leadership that Drury has failed to provide for this team.

I think he will come cheap. I mean the dude is 37 years old. I can't imagine much more than a 3rd round pick will be requested of him. He is a UFA at the end of the season, but he is also a winger. We don't REALLY need another winger, but injuries happen and maybe Dubinsky will find himself at center again before the season is through, possibly opening up a spot for Stillman on left wing. If the Rangers don't grab him, somebody will. He has too much experience and skill to not be moved.



The Rangers always seem to do something come deadline day, and with there being several issues that need addressing (1st line center, puck-moving D-man), and several options available its hard to see the Rangers sitting pat. My first choice would be White, simply because we need a puck moving guy in the back and because I want Brad Richards, and if we acquire Weiss we wont have cap space. So Glenn if you're reading this: White is available, get it done.