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.

Paige Bueckers' impact on the Dallas Wings is underscored by her impressive positioning among the WNBA's steals leaders. In a promotional collaboration with ESPN for the upcoming film 'The Naked Gun,' Bueckers humorously engages with Liam Neeson's character, Frank Drebin, who questions her stealing abilities in a comedic exchange.

The commercial features other sports stars, including Mookie Betts and Adam Fox, as Drebin investigates crimes in sports. With Bueckers confirming a romance with Azzi Fudd, the Wings anticipate their return from the All-Star break against the Seattle Storm, highlighting Bueckers' dual role as both a pivotal player and a public figure in the sport.

The New York Islanders have shaken up their roster by trading defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens as part of a sign-and-trade deal that secures Dobson an eight-year contract worth $76 million. The Islanders receive forwards Emil Heineman and the 16th and 17th picks in the upcoming NHL draft. This strategic move comes after a challenging season for Dobson, who recorded 39 points and a minus-16 rating.

Meanwhile, the Canadiens are looking to enhance their defense with the addition of Dobson, who joins promising rookie Lane Hutson. The trade reflects the Canadiens' efforts to solidify their squad after returning to the playoffs after a four-year hiatus, although they fell short against the Washington Capitals. The Islanders, with their eye on the draft, hope to target Boston College center James Hagens, a Long Island native who has local fans excited.

The New York Rangers are actively retooling their roster to increase salary cap flexibility, a challenge compounded by their reliance on veteran players. The team is likely to wait for next offseason for more financial maneuverability as the cap is projected to rise, aligning with owner James Dolan's expectations for improved results. Key players are classified into tiers, with Adam Fox, J.T. Miller, and Igor Shesterkin deemed untouchable. Players like Chris Kreider and K’Andre Miller are on the trading block, while others such as Alexis Lafreniere and Brennan Othmann are available for the right price. The team must navigate complex decisions as they aim to bolster their roster for the upcoming season.

The New York Rangers are poised for a tumultuous offseason, with only three players seemingly safe from trade speculation. General Manager Chris Drury has indicated a desire to revamp the roster after a disappointing season, as reported by Arthur Staple from The Athletic. Notably, goaltender Igor Shesterkin, defenseman Adam Fox, and forward Artemi Panarin are the designated untouchables in trade discussions.

Despite Shesterkin and Fox being under long-term contracts, Panarin is entering the final year of his deal, yet the franchise appears eager to retain him, potentially negotiating an extension soon. With $8.4 million in cap space, the Rangers are likely to entertain trades involving other key players, including Mika Zibanejad, Chris Kreider, K’Andre Miller, and Alexis Lafreniere, as they seek to reshape their lineup ahead of the upcoming season.