The New York Rangers are aiming to return to the playoffs after falling short last season.

Just two years ago, the Rangers claimed the Presidents’ Trophy as the NHL’s top regular-season team, but they followed that up by missing the postseason entirely. In response, the organization revamped its roster and brought in a new head coach to reset its direction.

Despite those changes, the Rangers may still need another center. According to NHL insider Jeremy Tingly of NHLTradeRumors, New York could emerge as a possible landing spot for veteran star Evgeni Malkin.

Reports this offseason suggest that the upcoming campaign will likely be Malkin’s final year with the Pittsburgh Penguins. “Whether he plays out the full season there remains uncertain,” Tingly explained. “Pittsburgh is in the middle of a transition as President Kyle Dubas works to inject youth and speed into the lineup, while keeping the veteran core intact for now.”

Tingly also pointed out that Malkin’s preferred destinations may include the Vegas Golden Knights, Florida Panthers, and Rangers. The future Hall of Famer carries a $6.1 million cap hit this season and controls his fate with a no-movement clause. “If Pittsburgh struggles early, expect trade speculation to heat up quickly, as Dubas could be ready to shake up the roster,” Tingly added.

Malkin, currently in the last year of his four-year, $24.4 million contract, would be an attractive option for New York. He could slot in as a second or third-line center while bringing valuable veteran leadership. The 37-year-old has an impressive resume, having played a key role in the Penguins’ Stanley Cup victories in 2009, 2016, and 2017, and earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 2009.

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