Blake Wheeler #17 of the New York Rangers
The New York Rangers are facing key decisions with several unrestricted free agents set to enter the open market on July 1.
Veteran forward Blake Wheeler is contemplating retirement. He reflected on his personal life and the impact of continuing his career on his family. “I have three kids: an 11-year-old, an 8-year-old, a 6-year-old. The 11-year-old’s gonna be in middle school next year,” Wheeler said. “I still love the game, still love to play, but I want to be around for their childhood, too, so I think those are the things you weigh.”
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Wheeler, who played 54 games for the Rangers this season and posted nine goals, 12 assists, and 21 points, was sidelined by a leg injury in February that kept him out for the rest of the regular season and most of the playoffs.
Another forward approaching free agency is Alex Wennberg. Acquired at the NHL Trade Deadline, Wennberg contributed two goals in 26 games, including the playoffs, and played a crucial two-way role. Wennberg expressed his desire to return to the Rangers next season. “I would love to stay,” he said. “It’s good memories so far from this place. I would definitely want to come back here.”
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On defense, Erik Gustafsson is another player Rangers GM Chris Drury must evaluate. After signing a one-year, $825,000 contract last summer, Gustafsson exceeded expectations with six goals, 25 assists, and 31 points in 76 games. He expressed his love for the team but acknowledged uncertainty about his future. “Obviously, I love playing here,” Gustafsson said. “I can’t see into the future, but I have family and stuff like that. I have to see what’s happening. I love playing here, and I love the group in here. We’ll see what happens.”
Additionally, Jack Roslovic and Chad Ruhwedel are set to become free agents, leaving their futures with the Rangers uncertain.
