The New York Rangers could be set for some significant roster turnover over the course of the 2018-19 campaign, as forward Kevin Hayes is drawing interest around the league, according to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos.
“He’s getting a lot of attention early, in terms of NHL scouts,” Kypreos said Saturday during Hockey Night in Canada’s Headlines segment. “It’s no secret right now he’s already making [$5.175 million] with the New York Rangers and he’s going to price himself out as he becomes an unrestricted free agent — especially when it comes to the New York Rangers’ rebuild. So he’s going to get a lot of attention early here.”
Hayes is in the midst of his fifth season for the Rangers, and is fresh off a career-high 25-goal campaign in 2017-18. He’s posted a total of 75 goals and 177 points through 320 total appearances at the NHL level, all for New York.
The 26-year-old is currently signed to a one-year deal in Manhattan, after having played out a pair of two-year contracts to start off his big-league career.
Edmonton Oilers forward Zack Kassian could be on the move soon too, as the 27-year-old is now allowed to see what his options are via trade, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.
“Zack Kassian has permission from the team to seek out a trade out of the city, try to find a fresh start,” Friedman said of the Oilers depth forward.
Kassian suited up for three seasons in Edmonton prior to 2018-19, after beginning his career with stints in Buffalo and Vancouver. The big-bodied forward had seven goals and 19 points for Connor McDavid’s side last season. He has zero points thus far in 2018-19.
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