All signs point to the New York Rangers and center Kevin Hayes parting ways in the near future. Which teams make the most sense for him?
The New York Rangers are focused on building their roster with the future in mind. Which is why it’s quite telling they only signed restricted free agent center Kevin Hayes to a one-year deal. It’s unknown which of the two parties didn’t want a long-term deal.
This should set off a few red flags. First of all, there are two reasons why a rebuilding team would only sign a player for one year. They either want to get to know more about the player or they want to use him as trade bait.
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The first can be ruled out, as Hayes has proven himself deserving of a long-term commitment. A center who you can pencil in for 40 points a year (he has reached that three times in four seasons) has value.
Despite being in a sub-optimal role and system, Hayes has been arguably the Rangers’ best center over the past two seasons. At worst, he’s been their second-best.
This leaves the second option – a trade. While it’s not completely set in stone, as the Rangers could, in theory, sign Hayes to an extension after Jan. 1 if something changes, the one-year deal suggests he’s not a part of the Blueshirts future. Especially considering he had one year left of team control going into this offseason.
Given the Rangers plethora of young centers, it was almost a guarantee either Hayes or Mika Zibanejad would be moved in the near future. All signs point to the former being the guy who will be traded.
The Rangers were wise to sign him to the one-year deal. Hayes can create offense on his own, which should be highlighted in new head coach David Quinn’s system. This should help him significantly improve his value. That will help both the Rangers (who will be able to get more for the center) and Hayes (who should be able to get a more lucrative deal in free agency).
Let’s take a look at which teams should make a trade for him.