Why Rangers' Stanley Cup pedigree pursuit is a logical move

Recently, portal Heavy.com linked Erik Johnson to the New York Rangers, and this potential trade would answer the need of the Blueshirts to add depth and experience without compromising the salary cap.

Johnson, 37, is a former first-pick draft, but now he's a veteran with over 1,000 NHL games. He definitely would bring leadership and knowledge on what it takes to make it to the playoffs. 

Erik Johnson offers New York Rangers proven leadership on a low-cost deal

The defenseman would be a low-cost option for the Rangers, ideal to occupy the seventh or eighth defender role, keeping some financial flexibility, and that'll give some backup to the team over potential injuries.

"Johnson would hardly make it into the top six. But then again, injuries always play a major role throughout the season. So, there are plenty of reasons why the Rangers could take a flyer on Johnson this upcoming season," wrote Nestor Quixtan.

Johnson has experience being a key piece for the Colorado Avalanche, the season they won the Stanley Cup back in 2022, which makes him a very attractive potential signing for a team that seeks to compete at the top level.

The 37-year-old player wants to remain active, and his profile might be perfect for coach Mike Sullivan, who tends to trust veterans for crucial situations, even in a secondary role. If this experiment doesn't work, the two parts could separate themselves without big risks, but if the Minnesota native fits, the Rangers would have a motivated defender with a Stanley Cup pedigree on their roster.