Rangers trade Scheifele to Minnesota

Behind the scenes. the New York Rangers had been trying to get into the 1st round. Talks were close, but they were not able to get things done. However, one conversation during the draft sparked sparked some interest with a team that was looking to advace their capabilities to compete this year and those talks centered on Mark Scheifele from the Rangers and the 5th overall selection Matthew Tkachuk that was held by the Minnesota Wild.

After retreating to their respective home bases after the draft concluded, the teams traded thoughts on what they would be comfortable in filling out the remaining aspects of the trade and a deal was struck.

"We had been talking with a team in the hopes of landing Tkachuk. He was high on our radar as we did not think we could get into the top 2, and when that deal fel apart, we shifted our focus to the team that drafted the youngster and are very happy we could get a deal done. They are getting a great young player in Mark Scheifele. He's big center that oozes talent and is just starting to blossom. He's going to do very well for them.For us, getting that versatile C/LW in Hertl was key to getting a deal done. While the focus is on Tkachuk, as well it should be, we probably cannot pull the trigger without Hertl's inclusion. Getting that player to replace Mark on the Center depth chart was absolutely necessary. In order to do that we had to include a 2nd in 2018 which we think helps even things out as they get a future asset back in the deal."

Rumors have it that the Rangers are not done. Who's on the outs?