NHL Rumors: Strome and Rangers not close on new deal, Blues and Panthers in on Giroux?
Anthony Scultore
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The New York Rangers won’t be trading Ryan Strome according to a report in the NY Post that appeared prior to the All-Star Break. That doesn’t mean the two sides are any closer to a deal.
Multiple reports indicate that there is still a significant gap at this time in contract talks. Most recently, The Athletic stated that they are still negotiating.
NHL Rumors: Ryan Strome extension
Ryan Strome is making $4.5M on his current deal and is due a nice increase. Artemi Panarin’s favorite center would likely fetch well over $6M if he hits the open market. Of course, a deal of that size will hinder the Rangers cap maneuverability and make them prone to future offer sheets.
One source told me back in December, if the term is right, Strome may accept $5.75M.
What I would add is there seems to be some similarity with these extension talks and Mika Zibanejad’s. Leading up to the Zibanejad extension, which many believed would be close to $10M but landed at $8.5, there was a lot of trade chatter regarding Jack Eichel.
Fast forward and the Rangers are said to be in heavy pursuit of J.T Miller, who may also act an insurance policy if Strome doesn’t extend. Maybe it’s just a coincidence, or maybe there’s a tactic at work?
Strome, 28, has 34 points in 44 games.
Claude Giroux watch
The Philadelphia Flyers captain is in no rush to leave the only city he’s ever played for. However, reality is starting to settle in for Claude Giroux and a trade for the pending UFA is growing increasingly likely.
Giroux, 34, is in the final year of a contract that comes with a $8.275M cap hit. He has 37 points in 45 games.
The most talked about landing spot for Giroux are the Colorado Avalanche but there appears to be two more teams to keep an eye out on.
First, Frank Seravalli is looking at the St. Louis Blues as a possible landing spot. Giroux has familiarity with head coach Craig Berube and a fit makes sense.
Second, Elliotte Friedman indicates the Florida Panthers, who are in “All-In” mode may take a run at him.
