New York Rangers Must Look To Improvement By Trade

With an overtime loss to the New York Islanders last night, the Rangers ended their four game winning streak. Over the month of December, the Blueshirts have seen a significant decrease in goals against, which is good for their young defense. The downside is that the offense has been non-existent, ever since a 7-4 victory over the Blue Jackets on November 17. In the 15 games since, the Rangers have scored less than three goals in 11 of those games.

Although the Rangers could use a tough, physical defensemen, it is not a top priority at the moment. The Rangers are in need of offense. Marian Gaborik has scored three-tenths of a point less than 25% of the team's entire goal total, with 26. No other player even has double digits in scoring and his chemistry with Vaclav Prospal has worn out over the last few weeks. The Rangers could use a center for the top line, with Prospal moving to the wing. Or if they choose to keep him at center, then they must find a left wing for the line. Below are five players that are unrestricted and affordable free agents starting after this season:

Matthew Lombardi (PHX; Center; $1.817 million)
When one makes trade speculation involving the Rangers, how can the Phoenix Coyotes not be included? Every year for the past two, Glen Sather and Don Maloney have swapped misfits at the trade deadline. This season should not be any different. Lombardi, 27 year old center with blazing speed is currently centering the top line for Phoenix and has 6 goals and 17 assists thus far. With Gaborik's powerful stride on the right side, these two could be a match made in heaven. Prospal may have excellent vision, and Dubinsky may bring the toughness, but neither two are a match for Lombardi's speed. Imagine these two players on an odd-man rush.

Matt Stajan (TOR; Center; $1.750 million)
Sather and Maple Leafs' GM are good buddies, dating back to the "old days" of hockey. It's surprising that the two have not traded more. The crafty Stajan has been a competent top six forward in Toronto, but if it appears that he cannot be re-signed, Burke will look to deal him. The going rate for second-line centers, as of last season, was a second round pick. Both Dominic Moore and Nik Antropov were dealt from Toronto for that exact price. Erik Christensen and Aaron Voros seem to be on the way out of New York, and with his cheap price tag, Stajan could be a nice fit for the second or third line.

Saku Koivu (ANA; Center; $3.250 million)
This center will cost more than the others, but it could be worth it. The former Captain of the Canadiens, Koivu, left Montreal for hopes of a better start with the Anaheim Ducks, but he is currently having himself a mediocre season while playing in the second line. The six-time 40 or more assist in a season center could fare very well with Gaborik at his side. The only question is, can the 35 year old keep up?

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