Reilly Smith will sit out tonight’s game for trade-related reasons. This follows the New York Rangers’ decision yesterday to move Ryan Lindgren and Jimmy Vesey to the Colorado Avalanche, signaling that the team is offloading pending unrestricted free agents to recoup assets. Smith appears to be the next player on the move under GM Chris Drury. His destination remains uncertain, but all signs point to a deal in the works.
Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) reports:
“Rangers holding out Reilly Smith from tonight’s game for trade deadline reasons. Pending UFA could be dealt before Friday’s deadline.”
Acquired from Pittsburgh on July 1st last year, Smith’s contract already has salary retention from the Penguins, meaning he cannot be double retained. However, the Rangers could retain a portion of his remaining salary to maximize their return. With an affordable cap hit of $3.75 million, Smith’s trade value remains strong.
In his lone season with the Rangers, the Mimico, Ontario native has tallied 10 goals and 19 assists for 29 points in 58 games, a consistent 0.5 points-per-game pace. His modified no-trade clause prevents moves to struggling teams, but he’s likely open to joining a contender.
Several teams could be interested in Smith, especially after yesterday’s activity in the Western Conference, where Colorado and Dallas made key trades. Vegas or Edmonton could be potential landing spots, while in the East, Washington might look to bolster its roster after Florida’s questionable move. With the deadline approaching, expect more movement from the Rangers.
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