The New York Rangers appear to be entering a transitional phase, and the latest buzz suggests General Manager Chris Drury is looking West for a centerpiece to his “retool.” 

According to multiple NHL insiders, the Rangers are a primary suitor for Seattle Kraken center Shane Wright, the former fourth overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft.

With the 2026 trade deadline approaching, both teams find themselves at a crossroads. 

The Rangers are looking to get younger and faster after a disappointing campaign, while Seattle is reportedly hunting for established top-six scoring to solidify their playoff positioning under head coach Lane Lambert.

Find out why the Ranger might be interested in Wright and who could be on the move in a potential trade deadline deal.

Wright’s Availability is More than Just a Rumor

While trade speculation often lives on social media, this rumor has been confirmed by some of the NHL’s top insiders. Speaking on the 32 Thoughts podcast, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman confirmed that the Kraken are seriously considering moving the 22-year-old pivot.

“The Shane Wright stuff—that he’s available and out there and the Kraken are considering moving him—that’s real,” Friedman stated.

Friedman went a step further, suggesting that a “change of scenery” trade involving Rangers winger Alexis Lafrenière would make sense for both sides. 

“When I thought about that, I was kind of like, that’s not the worst idea I’ve ever heard,” Friedman remarked, noting that both high-lottery picks could benefit from fresh starts in new systems.

In addition to Lafrenière, trade rumors have also swirled around center Vincent Trocheck, though his desire to remain in the Eastern Conference could take Seattle out of the running.

Why the Kraken are Listening

According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the relationship between Wright and the Kraken may be “on the ropes.” Despite a breakout 44-point rookie campaign in 2024-25, Wright has struggled to find a consistent role under Lane Lambert this season.

Usage Issues: Wright is currently averaging just 13:46 of ice time, primarily in a third-line role.
Production Dip: Through 56 games this season, Wright has posted 22 points (11 G, 11 A), a significant drop-off from his rookie pace.
The Kraken’s Need: Seattle is reportedly hunting for a “dynamic offensive scorer” to boost their top-six as they push for a playoff spot.

The Mike Sullivan Factor

If the Rangers pull the trigger, the hope is that head coach Mike Sullivan can unlock Wright’s two-way potential. 

Scouts have long praised Wright’s “200-foot game,” a trait that Sullivan famously values. 

In a new system and potentially playing alongside creative wingers, the Rangers believe Wright could finally morph into the elite No. 2 center they’ve lacked.

Building A “New Core” For The Future

For Chris Drury, acquiring Wright would be a bet on pedigree. 

With Panarin gone and the Rangers focused on getting younger, Wright fits the timeline of other key pieces like Gabe Perreault and Liam Greentree (acquired in the Panarin deal).

With the NHL Olympic break currently in effect, the trade market is technically frozen, but front offices are expected to be hyper-active behind the scenes. 

If Drury believes Wright still has untapped star potential, this could be the defining gamble of his tenure.