Metropolitan Division Trade Deadline Preview

NEW YORK RANGERS

Mar 1, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Rangers right wing Ryan Callahan (24) against the Philadelphia Flyers during the first period at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

STANDINGS:  69 PTS, 2nd in Atlantic Division, 6th in Eastern Conference

PLAYOFF PROGNOSIS/ STATUS:  Potential Stanley Cup Contender / Buyer & Seller

NEEDS:  A replacement for Ryan Callahan‘s heart and soul leadership should he get dealt

DEADLINE CAP SPACE:  $7.9 million.

ASSETS TO DEAL:  Callahan has pretty much priced himself out of the Rangers cap situation. Anton Stralman would be available, as are buried players Arron Asham and Darrell Powe, who could all provide depth to a contender in the playoffs.

RUMORS:  Martin St. Louis wants to become a Ranger, and a deal for Callahan seems like the obvious trade.  However, 2 factors could prevent that from happening: 1)  Tampa might not be willing to meet Callahan’s contract request and 2) St. Louis wouldn’t fit under the Rangers’ cap any easier than Callahan would.