NEW YORK — Buckle up, Rangers fans — because the Blueshirts are on the brink of making one of the biggest splashes of the offseason. According to multiple league sources and insiders, the New York Rangers are now the frontrunners to land the top defenseman available in free agency — and the signing could shift the balance of power in the Eastern Conference.
While the name of the target is being kept under tight wraps, all signs point to Brandon Montour, the hard-nosed, puck-moving blueliner coming off another strong season with the Florida Panthers. Montour, 31, is expected to command a deal in the $7–8 million AAV range and is believed to be eager for a change of scenery and a shot at a Cup with a contending team.
> “The Rangers are absolutely in on Montour,” one NHL insider confirmed. “They have the need, the money, and the ambition to get this done.”
—
Why Montour Fits
The Rangers’ playoff exit exposed a glaring issue: their defense lacked physicality and offensive punch beyond Adam Fox. Montour brings both in spades. He posted 44 points (11G, 33A) in 75 games this season and logged over 23 minutes per night, often in high-leverage situations.
A pairing of Fox and Montour would instantly become one of the most dangerous in the NHL — and offer the kind of transition game Head Coach Peter Laviolette has been craving.
> “Montour’s skillset matches what the Rangers are missing: grit, speed, offense, and edge,” said an anonymous coach. “He plays playoff hockey.”
—
Making Room on the Blue Line
Of course, making this happen means one or more current Rangers defensemen will have to move. That brings us back to K’Andre Miller, who is rumored to be available via trade (see our previous post). By moving Miller’s cap hit and possibly another depth defenseman, Drury could open enough space to pursue Montour or another top-tier D-man.
There are also whispers that Jacob Trouba’s contract could be on the table in a cap-clearing move, though a buyout or trade would be complicated due to his no-movement clause.
—
Rangers All-In
This is not a rebuild. This is not a retool. This is an all-out arms race to build a championship defense around their current core. Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, Adam Fox, and Igor Shesterkin aren’t getting younger — and the time is now.
Expect the Rangers to go hard after Montour the moment free agency opens. And don’t rule out a surprise second signing — Drury has been known to strike fast and strike big.
—
Final Thoughts
If the Rangers do land Montour, it will be a signal to the rest of the NHL that they’re not content with “close enough.” They want a Stanley Cup — and they’re willing to spend, shuffle, and go bold to get it