Mika Zibanejad’s Future with Rangers Uncertain Amid Trade Speculation

New York, NY (AP) — The future of Mika Zibanejad with the New York Rangers remains in question as the team navigates a tumultuous offseason. The 28-year-old forward, who holds a full no-move clause, may be more receptive to waiving it than initially thought, opening the door for a potential trade.

As the longest-tenured Ranger following Chris Kreider‘s recent trade, Zibanejad has had a mixed recent performance. Last season, he scored 20 goals and recorded 62 points, a drop from his career-high 91 points in the 2022-23 season. His inconsistency has raised eyebrows among fans and management alike.

Reports indicate that Zibanejad and the Rangers have reached a consensus that parting ways might be beneficial for both parties. Sources from The Athletic suggest the decision comes after a disappointing 2024-25 campaign that saw Zibanejad’s production falter.

General Manager Chris Drury is reportedly keen on restructuring the team, having already parted ways with other key players, including Jacob Trouba and Chris Kreider. Drury is under pressure to fill significant gaps in the roster, as losing Zibanejad would mean finding a new center or winger capable of matching his goal-scoring ability.

While a trade could free up approximately $8.5 million in salary cap space, concerns remain about Zibanejad’s hefty contract—an eight-year, $68 million deal running through the 2029-30 season. Possible trade partners may be hesitant to take on that salary without further negotiations on compensation.

As the Rangers aim to build a more competitive team, the speculation surrounding Zibanejad’s future continues to grow. The next moves by Drury and the Rangers may define the team’s trajectory in the upcoming season.