The New York Rangers have a very valuable trade chip in Kevin Hayes. Here are five teams who would make the most sense for him.
Going into the 2018-19 season, everyone knew the New York Rangers were going to be sellers. Kevin Hayes was thought of as all but a goner after only signing a one-year extension. He has done nothing but help increase his trade value, thriving under new head coach David Quinn.
Through 39 games, Hayes has 33 points. He’s on pace to shatter his previous career high of 49 points, averaging 0.85 points per game. This makes Hayes one of the most covetable assets available at the trade deadline.
The Price
The Rangers should expect to get a very nice haul for Hayes. History suggests they’ll get at least a first-round pick and a prospect for him. This is the kind of haul players like Paul Stastny, Martin Hanzal, and Derick Brassard have commanded in recent years. And Hayes will arguably have even more suitors than those guys.
He’s arguably the best center available, depending on what happens with Matt Duchene and the Senators. Even if Hayes isn’t the best, he’ll quickly gain a lot of suitors because only one team can trade for Duchene. His ability to drive possession and ability to play on the wing makes him even more valuable.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at the top five teams who make the most sense for Hayes.
Honorable Mentions: Buffalo Sabres, Calgary Flames
5. Pittsburgh Penguins
Why they make sense: Trading for Brassard last season didn’t fix the Pittsburgh Penguins third-line center issue as they planned. General Manager Jim Rutherford has been aggressive when he’s had holes to fill. Hayes would give the Penguins the kind of forward depth that helped them win back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2016 and 2017.
Why they don’t: It’s all about the salary cap space. Rutherford would have to get mighty creative to fit Hayes under the cap ceiling. Trading Brassard would help, but even then, there might have to be a third team involved. The Penguins might also want to use the precious space they have to get a defensive upgrade, depending on how well Justin Schultz is able to bounce back when he returns.