Rangers Reportedly Targeting $30M Center From Crosstown Rival

When referring to the two-way potential of Jean-Gabriel Pageau, Peter Baugh likened it to a good match, but the Islanders aren't apparently looking to trade the fan favorite to a division foe.

'Jean Gabriel-Pageau, Islanders: He'd be a great 3C option, but the Islanders might not want to trade one of their popular, long-time players to a major rival.' Baugh said.

'It's hard to know who will be available come the trade deadline since so many teams are trying to win, but looking at rosters of teams who might be out of the mix, here are a few potential fits, given the Rangers' needs and types of players they tend to like.' Peter Baugh said.

Other options available would be expensive for the Rangers to acquire

Baugh mentioned a few more as possibilities, too. Buffalo's Alex Tuch would be a top-six winger of the desired quality if a contract extension were granted, but he would be expensive.

Pittsburgh's Rickard Rakell and Bryan Rust are potential candidates, but they're popular and important in Pittsburgh and would cost a lot to acquire despite their age.

Defensively, San Jose's Mario Ferraro would provide depth, but he is a UFA next season. Should the team be looking for more insurance scoring, Nashville's Michael Bunting and Seattle's Mason Marchment can provide mid-six pop.

Everything would be riding on the Rangers still being postseason contenders at the end of it. If they're not, the leadership would be looking to hold onto their pair of 2026 first-rounders and bank cap space for the future.