The Los Angeles Kings are optimistic about re-signing defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov, who is set to become a free agent. Following his change in representation to agent Pat Brisson, contract discussions are anticipated to continue, focusing on a long-term extension that would benefit both parties.

In other news, Taylor Hall's extension talks with the Carolina Hurricanes are moving forward, and a deal is expected to be finalized soon. On the flip side, the New York Rangers face a challenging offseason as they navigate their salary cap constraints while looking to extend key restricted free agents such as K'Andre Miller and Will Cuylle. Several players, including Jonathan Quick and Chris Kreider, may find themselves at a crossroads regarding new contracts or potential buyouts depending on the team's strategy going forward.

The New York Rangers face a tough challenge tonight as they visit the Minnesota Wild, a team currently in playoff contention. With their slim playoff hopes hanging by a thread, the Rangers must essentially win out against the two teams ahead of them, the Montreal Canadiens and Columbus Blue Jackets. The current lineup, which has seen consistent losses, remains largely unchanged aside from a minor winger swap, leaving fans feeling disappointed.

There are suggestions to shut down key players Adam Fox and Chris Kreider to ensure they return healthy next season, especially given Fox's injury concerns. Kreider, meanwhile, could be a trade asset in the offseason. The focus should shift towards evaluating younger players and seeing who can contribute long-term. With the season nearing its end, the Rangers might as well prepare for the future while giving their prospects a chance to shine.

The New York Rangers made a significant splash in the trade market this season, executing several key deals that could reshape their roster. Major transactions included trading Jacob Trouba to the Anaheim Ducks and acquiring J.T. Miller from the Vancouver Canucks. In addition, they exchanged Kaapo Kakko for Will Borgen with the Seattle Kraken and sent Ryan Lindgren to the Colorado Avalanche. The offseason could bring further changes, particularly for Mika Zibanejad and Chris Kreider, whose contracts may lead to trade discussions.

Mika Zibanejad is facing a decline in production, moving from a career-high of 91 points to lower outputs recently, while Kreider has been hampered by injuries. Their hefty contracts—Zibanejad's no-movement clause for the next five years and Kreider's two-year term with a 15-team no-trade list—could complicate potential trades. Meanwhile, Artemi Panarin's diminishing performance also invites speculation, particularly if a contender looks to acquire him before his contract expires.

Chris Kreider remains with the New York Rangers as the NHL trade deadline passes, despite ongoing speculation about his future. According to reports, Kreider, the longest-serving player on the team, has been on the trade block but has not been moved. Rangers GM Chris Drury acknowledged Kreider's significance to the team, indicating that the organization is still considering a potential trade in the offseason.

After missing six games due to an upper-body injury, Kreider has returned to the ice. He has tallied 17 goals and 21 points over 49 games this season. His performance could be pivotal as the Rangers continue their playoff pursuit.