All sights are set on the Free Agent Frenzy set to officially begin on July 1 and the New York Rangers may have one specific target in mind.
Vladislav Gavrikov is reportedly a prime target for the Rangers if he hits the open market and that speculation has only continued to pick up steam.
There has been communication between Gavrikov’s camp and the Los Angeles Kings on a potential contract extension, but if the veteran defenseman decides to leave Los Angeles, don’t be surprised if he makes his way to The Big Apple.
“Pending unrestricted free agent Vladislav Gavrikov has floated around in rumors connecting him with the Rangers, and league sources indeed believe there is a strong fit between the left-shot defenseman and the team,” Peter Baugh of The Athletic reported. “The Rangers are expected to have interest if he does not re-sign with the Kings and reaches the open market, according to a league source.”
K’Andre Miller is a player who’s been heavily rumored to be traded, but for now he still remains with the Rangers. It’s unclear how Miller’s situation directly impacts Gavrikov’s chances of landing with the Blueshirts.
There’s a growing sense that Gavrikov's top choice of teams outside of the Kings is the Rangers.
“Door hasn’t closed on Gavrikov in LA, but I’ve heard a lot of rumors that he could go elsewhere to the Rangers to play with Adam Fox,” ESPN’s Emily Kaplan said.
According to NHL insider Frank Seravalli, a contract for Gavrikov will likely come in at seven years at almost eight million per season.
The 28-year-old recorded five goals, 25 assists, and 30 points in 82 games while averaging 23:05 minutes this past season.
