**Rangers Should Target Nick Blankenburg in Free Agency**
The New York Rangers were eliminated in the Eastern Conference Final by the eventual Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers, who secured their first championship in franchise history. Despite a strong season and winning the Presidents’ Trophy for the best regular-season record, the Rangers fell short in the playoffs. One key difference between the Rangers and Panthers was the depth of the Panthers’ lineup, particularly in their forward and defensive units.
To improve their roster, the Rangers should consider adding affordable depth in free agency. While high-profile free agents like Patrick Kane, Steven Stamkos, and Tyler Bertuzzi will be available, a less prominent but potentially valuable addition could be defenseman Nick Blankenburg. At 26, Blankenburg has been underutilized by the Columbus Blue Jackets and is likely seeking a fresh start for the 2024-25 season.
Blankenburg captained the University of Michigan in the 2021-22 NCAA season, posting 29 points in 38 games before joining the Blue Jackets. In his first seven NHL games, he tallied three points, followed by a 36-game campaign with 14 points. However, he struggled to secure a consistent position, splitting time between the NHL and AHL.
In the 2023-24 season, Blankenburg played 12 games with the Blue Jackets, scoring one goal, and 24 games with the AHL’s Cleveland Monsters, where he recorded 13 points. Now an unrestricted free agent with 55 career NHL games and a 0.33 points-per-game average, Blankenburg presents a low-risk, high-reward option for the Rangers.
Blankenburg is motivated to redeem himself next season after limited opportunities with the Blue Jackets. Despite an injury, his exclusion from their roster suggests they are willing to let him leave. The Rangers should consider him for a bottom-pairing or seventh-defenseman role, with the potential for increased ice time.
Blankenburg’s two-way game is notable; he is a skilled skater, unafraid to create offensive chances, and defensively sound with an active stick. Although he faced challenges with the Blue Jackets, he has potential for a rebound. Signing a minimal contract, possibly close to the $775,000 minimum, could make him a valuable addition. If the Rangers are willing to offer him a chance, Blankenburg could prove to be a steal if he regains his confidence and performance at the NHL level.
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