Rangers Roundup: Max Domi trade talk, and is something brewing with Seattle?

Anthony Scultore Updated: Mar 4, 2022

max domi rangers — Oct 29, 2021; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers center Ryan Strome (16) fights with Columbus Blue Jackets center Max Domi (16) during the third period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

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The New York Rangers will face the New Jersey Devils tonight, but it feels like the next nine games until the NHL Trade Deadline are about to become sidebars.

On Thursday evening, TSN’s Insider Trading noted that Chris Drury is very much involved in trade talks for some notable names which includes; J.T. Miller, Rickard Rakell, and Ben Chiarot.

There are some other possibilities too, especially since there’s been plenty of scouting between the Blueshirts and both the Columbus Blue Jackets and Seattle Kraken.

Rangers and Max Domi rumors

Domi, 27, is a pending UFA this summer with a cap hit of $5.3 million. The versatile forward can play center but has been used by Columbus primarily as a left wing. This season, he has 25 points in 44 games but has potential for more. During the 2018-19 season, he racked up 72 points in 82 games for the Canadiens.

If the last night sounds familiar, his father, Tie Domi used to police the Garden ice for a few years back in the early 90s. His fights with the late Bob Probert of the Red Wings are legendary.

Max is likely on the move at the trade deadline, and the Rangers have been linked by The Fourth Period and The Athletic. Depending on what Chris Drury can get done, Domi may be an affordable rental option but lower down their target list. He could play third line center, or even third line left wing should the Rangers opt to go with Alexis Lafrenière and Kaapo Kakko on the top two lines for the playoffs.

The cost of acquisition for Domi will matter, because it’s unlikely with the Rangers’ cap issues next year that they could re-sign him.

Rangers and Kraken are talking

new york rangers rumors — Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

The Rangers have had interest in pending UFA defenseman Mark Giordano since last season. However, he’s not the only player the Seattle Kraken are making available.

According to Arthur Staple of The Athletic, Calle Jarnkrok is a potential target and GMs Chris Drury and Ron Francis have had some discussion.

Jarnkrok, 30, is having a solid season with the Kraken and can play any forward position. He’s currently playing first line center, which should tell you all you need to know about the Kraken’s lowly position in the standing. He would be a great third line center for the playoffs.

As I noted yesterday, Chris Drury needs to revamp his third line more than he needs J.T. Miller.