The New York Rangers are on a strong path to recovery in 2025, but they will likely part ways with a few players as part of their progress. As the 2025 trade deadline approaches, general manager Chris Drury is expected to make moves, and some players will be leaving Manhattan for new opportunities.
So, who could we see leave? One player might be missed more than others, but if the trade improves the team overall, fans won’t make much of a fuss. Here are three players who are likely to play their final games as Rangers after the deadline:
Chris Kreider:
Despite previous criticisms, this feels like the moment to move on from Kreider. His performance in 2024-25 has been underwhelming, with just 20 points (16 goals, 4 assists) in 47 games. While his goal-scoring remains decent, his shooting percentage has dropped, and his playmaking hasn’t improved. Other teams are still aware of his potential and may take a chance on him, so the Rangers might trade him while they can still get some value.
K’Andre Miller:
Miller’s physicality and edge are appealing to contenders, but his performance this season has been disappointing, with only 4 goals and 13 points in 49 games. After a strong 30-point season last year, his decline may push the Rangers to trade him. A contender could see value in him as a tough bottom-pairing defenseman, and the Rangers may get back a more consistent player in return, despite Miller’s potential.
Kaapo Kakko:
Kakko might surprise fans with a potential move. While he had a solid finish in New York, with 14 points and 4 goals in his final 30 games, and has shown he can contribute in Seattle with 17 points and 5 goals in 24 games, it’s unlikely the Rangers will bring him back this season. A trade before the deadline could be in the cards, but it’s not expected that Kakko will return to New York anytime soon.
These players may be part of the changes Drury makes as the Rangers continue their push for a stronger future.
