Rangers Reveal Blockbuster Trade Plan for Mika Zibanejad After Olympic Gold Impact
NEW YORK — Feb. 23, 2026. In the wake of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina, the Mika Zibanejad narrative surrounding the New York Rangers has taken a dramatic new turn. After a strong international showing for Sweden — including scoring three goals in five games — Zibanejad’s stock among NHL clubs has been boosted just as trade speculation around him has intensified.
A New Value on the Trade Market
While discussions about a potential blockbuster have swirled for weeks, a recent update from league insiders suggests that the Rangers may now be more seriously considering moving the veteran center. According to reports, Zibanejad’s Olympic performance enhanced his reputation and on-ice value, making him a more attractive asset for contending teams. Scouts and executives around the league have taken note of his high-level play against elite competition.
One NHL analyst suggested that even if the Rangers are intent on restructuring their roster, Zibanejad’s performance makes him a player who could return significant assets in a trade package — whether that means draft picks, young talent, or combination deals to help fast-track a rebuild.
Despite the optimism around a blockbuster deal, New York’s front office faces a key challenge: Zibanejad has four years remaining on his contract at a reported $8.5 million cap hit. Moving an expensive, long-term contract like that isn’t easy. That has led to speculation that the Rangers would need to retain some of his salary to make any trade work for a potential acquiring team.
Cap-hit management remains a major concern for Rangers GM Chris Drury, who has already initiated roster changes this season. Whether salary retention or creative structuring will be part of any deal remains a central point of negotiation among NHL front offices.
Zibanejad’s Performance Boosts Bargaining Power
Zibanejad’s Olympic performance wasn’t just valuable for Team Sweden — it also provided a timely reminder of his playmaking ability and scoring touch, something that NHL teams always prize in a top-six forward. Coming off his best points pace in three years heading into the Olympic break, he projects as an “above-average scoring-line center,” in the eyes of several insiders.
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That dual appeal — international success plus NHL effectiveness — could make him an asset in trade scenarios where contending clubs look for midfield depth. His ability to elevate the power play and deliver quality offensive contributions adds to his appeal.