3 Potential Trade Offers The New York Rangers Could Make for Tyler Johnson

A couple of weeks ago, during an in-game interview with Darren Pang, Tyler Johnson was asked about the Blackhawks’ participation in the 2025 NHL Winter Classic at Wrigley Field. It was ironic Johnson was asked the question, as he almost assuredly will not be donning the Hawks sweater next season. Several teams are reportedly interested in renting the two-time Cup champion’s services this spring, most notably the New York Rangers.

GM Kyle Davidson has a history of making deals with Rangers GM Chris Drury, so let’s take a look at three realistic trades upon which the two could agree… 

Last year's deadline saw Teddy Blueger, an inferior player to Johnson, fetch Pittsburgh an AHL defenseman and a third-round pick from Vegas. The Rangers do not own their third-round selection this year, but they could offer Chicago a pair of picks that amount to similar value without giving up a roster player.

Korczak, a third-round pick by the Rangers in 2021, posted 246 points in 248 WHL games before joining AHL Hartford full-time this season. He has only contributed 16 points in 47 games, but he has top-nine NHL potential. Would Drury be willing to swap a future third-liner for a current one who can help his team win now?

The Blackhawks don’t have the best history with the 2019 NHL draft class (Exhibit A: Kirby Dach), but the second player selected may be worth taking a flier on. Kaako can play a physical game and can contribute offensively (18 goals last season). The Hawks desperately need a scoring power forward, and Kaako desperately needs a change of scenery. In this deal, the Hawks would shore up the Rangers’ center depth and add a sweetener, while the Rangers could close the chapter on a disappointing lottery pick.