The New York Rangers are aiming to add more grit across their roster this offseason, and the blue line is a logical starting point. A physically imposing, left-shot defenseman for their top-four would be an ideal addition. If K’Andre Miller is retained—rather than traded—he could pair with either Adam Fox or Will Borgen. But despite Miller’s size (6-foot-5, 210 pounds), he doesn’t consistently bring the kind of edge New York needs. That makes acquiring a more punishing defender a priority.
Should the Rangers decide to move Miller, they may look to bring in multiple tough, stay-at-home types. Several candidates on the trade market fit the bill, though New York’s roughly $8.4 million in cap space and a handful of pending restricted free agents make things tight. GM Chris Drury would need to be strategic to make any big move.
Darnell Nurse – Edmonton Oilers
Nurse is the most ambitious target. The rugged 6-foot-4, 215-pounder brings physicality, strong defensive play, and decent offense (32+ points in seven straight seasons). He’d be a perfect top-pair partner for Fox. But his $9.25 million cap hit through 2029 poses a challenge. Edmonton might be open to moving him to free up room for a Connor McDavid extension and to re-sign Evan Bouchard. If the Rangers can move a big salary and get Edmonton to retain some money, this high-reward trade might be possible—especially with Panarin’s massive deal expiring next summer.
Jamie Oleksiak – Seattle Kraken
At 6-foot-7 and 252 pounds, Oleksiak adds sheer intimidation. Though better suited to second or third-pair minutes, his toughness would reshape the Rangers’ defensive tone. He has one year left at $4.6 million, and with the Rangers already having a trade history with Seattle (Will Borgen), a deal feels plausible.
Luke Schenn – Winnipeg Jets
Schenn, 35, remains one of the NHL’s most physical blueliners, delivering 300 hits last season. He’s a low-cost, short-term option at $2.75 million for one more year. Winnipeg, facing cap pressures and multiple key RFAs, may be open to moving him.
Ben Chiarot – Detroit Red Wings
Chiarot is a throwback defenseman: gritty, fearless, and known for sticking up for teammates. His analytics are poor, but he logs hits and blocks in a third-pair role. He has one year left at $4.75 million, and Detroit may be open to cap relief if they retain salary.
Radko Gudas – Anaheim Ducks
Once known for borderline hits, Gudas has refined his game and remains a heavy hitter with shot-blocking prowess. He posted 261 hits and 178 blocks in 2024-25. With a year left at $4 million and Anaheim rebuilding, he could be available—though his limited no-trade clause could complicate a move.
Each target brings toughness in different ways, but all would raise the Rangers’ physical edge heading into 2025-26.
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