Rangers head into 2025-26 with a clearer plan and a roster overhaul aimed at a sharp bounce-back after a brutal 2024-25. Core veterans and a sharpened defensive unit are front and center as Mike Sullivan attempts to unlock a higher ceiling for Sam Miller-era stars and the kids waiting in the wings. Alexis Lafrenière faces seven-year, $52.15 million expectations while Mika Zibanejad looks to reverse a recent slide. A revamped blueline—Gavrikov, Borgen, Vaakanainen, Soucy—should lift Igor Shesterkin and Jonathan Quick, who enter a season with real coaching-driven structure in front of them. The 3C question looms large, with Parssinen, Raddysh and company vying for a defined identity. In net, Shesterkin anchors, but Quick’s age adds a layer of risk and opportunity.

Fantasy takeaway: Fox remains the anchor on the back end and a primary multi-category producer. Miller, Lafrenière and Trocheck form the high-upside trio, while the third line’s stability could swing 12-15 extra wins or losses in close fantasy calls. Watch for expanded roles for Cuylle, Perreault and Othmann if Sullivan trusts them in top or third lines. If Lafrenière finally breaks out, and Zibanejad recaptures his scoring touch, the Rangers become a subtle, high-upside playoff dart board for managers who can time hot streaks and injuries on a deep scoreboard.

The NHL offseason is buzzing with significant player movements, highlighted by the Florida Panthers' success in retaining key figures Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand. Meanwhile, stars like Mitch Marner and Nikolaj Ehlers have found new homes, reshaping the league dynamics. Marner's blockbuster sign-and-trade with the Vegas Golden Knights signals their intent to contend again, while Bennett's playoff MVP performance solidifies his value for the Panthers. Ehlers joins the Carolina Hurricanes, aiming to enhance their scoring depth as they strive to compete with the Panthers in the Eastern Conference.

Other notable transactions include the Montreal Canadiens acquiring Noah Dobson, further bolstering their defense, and the New York Rangers signing Vladislav Gavrikov. Each move reflects teams' strategies to fortify their rosters and enhance their competitive standings as they look toward the upcoming season.

The New York Rangers' cautious approach towards K'Andre Miller led to his unexpected shift to the Carolina Hurricanes, where he signed an impressive eight-year, $60 million contract. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman highlighted the divergent philosophies between the two teams regarding Miller's value. While the Rangers favored a short-term deal, the Hurricanes seized the opportunity, showcasing their commitment to building a strong core around players like Sebastian Aho and Jaccob Slavin.

This move signified Carolina's ambition, as head coach Rod Brind’Amour expressed excitement over landing a skilled defenseman. The Rangers, in response, opted for a different strategy by signing Vladislav Gavrikov to a $49 million contract, indicating a shift in their defensive mindset. General manager Chris Drury emphasized Gavrikov's reliability, marking a clear departure from the dynamic play Miller could have brought to New York.

The New York Rangers made significant moves this week, securing defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov with a seven-year, $49 million contract and extending forward Will Cuylle for two years at $7.8 million. Gavrikov, previously with the Los Angeles Kings, recorded 30 points last season while leading in blocked shots. The Rangers aim to pair him with Adam Fox, enhancing their defensive capabilities. Cuylle, coming off a breakout season with 45 points, has also made a name for himself with high hit numbers and accolades.

Additionally, the Rangers traded defenseman K’Andre Miller to the Carolina Hurricanes, acquiring future picks and Scott Morrow. Miller subsequently signed an eight-year deal, further indicating the Rangers’ strategic reshaping ahead of next season.

The New York Rangers have secured Vladislav Gavrikov, regarded as the premier defenseman in the offseason, on a seven-year contract extension worth $49 million. This decision comes after the 29-year-old opted to explore the free agency market despite strong interest from the Los Angeles Kings, who attempted to retain him with multiple contract offers.

Gavrikov's role is expected to be significant, as the Rangers plan to pair him with Adam Fox on defense, aiming to bolster their playoff aspirations after a disappointing season. In his previous season with the Kings, Gavrikov played a vital role, averaging over 23 minutes of ice time and contributing offensively with five goals and 25 assists. His partnership with fellow countryman Artemi Panarin, a former teammate in Columbus, adds an exciting dynamic to the Rangers' roster as they endeavor to reshape their lineup.