Latest NHL trade rumors on New York Rangers Center Vincent Trocheck, Evander Kane, Rasmus Ristolainen

The New York Rangers’ recent trade of Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings has sparked speculation that Vincent Trocheck could be next to move. Sources cited by James Murphy of RG.org on February 23 suggest Trocheck might be dealt before the March 6 trade deadline.

The Minnesota Wild are reportedly frontrunners for the 32-year-old center, who could fill a first-line role. Rumors indicate rookie goalie Jesper Wallstedt could be offered as part of a potential deal, while the Rangers may also seek prospect right wing Charlie Stramel in return.

The Detroit Red Wings are also said to be interested in Trocheck. Murphy speculated whether Detroit might include rookie defenseman Axel Sandin-Pellikka along with a prospect goalie such as Sebastian Cossa or Trey Augustine.

The Red Wings have the salary-cap space to absorb Trocheck’s $5.625 million AAV for the remaining three years, plus a wealth of draft picks and prospects. However, parting with Sandin-Pellikka seems unlikely, as it would leave Detroit thin on defense.

Meanwhile, the Vancouver Canucks have been actively trying to move veteran right winger Evander Kane. Reports from Thomas Drance of The Athletic suggest multiple teams are monitoring Kane, who is UFA-eligible this July and carries a $5.15 million cap hit, with Vancouver willing to retain up to half. TSN’s Chris Johnston noted that the Carolina Hurricanes, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Dallas Stars have expressed interest, making a trade before March 6 plausible.

In Philadelphia, defenseman Rasmus Ristolainen has again surfaced in trade chatter, a recurring pattern ahead of past deadlines.

The 31-year-old blueliner, with one year remaining on a $5.1 million contract and no no-trade protection, has drawn interest from roughly six teams, according to Anthony Di Marco of Daily Faceoff.

Ristolainen’s Olympic performance with Finland reportedly boosted his trade value. The Flyers are seeking a return similar to the Brandon Carlo trade last year or Ben Chiarot’s 2022 deal, likely a prospect and two draft picks, including a first-rounder