Rangers eye Kent Johnson in potential Blue Jackets trade

Don Waddell confirmed ongoing talks with Adam Fantilli on July 15 while delaying all other Blue Jackets roster moves until RFAs are resolved.

Rangers forward market narrows after Bjorkstrand signing

Vince Z. Mercogliano reported on July 15 that the Rangers remain active for a top-six or top-nine forward before the season opens. The club holds $3 to $4 million in cap space after signing RFAs, enough for one mid-tier addition.

The Rangers evaluated Anthony Mantha and Eeli Tolvanen before Oliver Bjorkstrand’s arrival ended those pursuits. Patrik Laine, 28, now surfaces as a possible one-year reclamation candidate.

Michael Bunting and Jonathan Drouin present similar profiles to the newly signed Bjorkstrand, creating roster overlap rather than upgrade.

Braden Schneider’s inclusion in any deal would free $5.5 million and expand options on the trade market.

Kent Johnson of the Blue Jackets ranks among the younger names available if Columbus finishes its RFA work first.

Cap flexibility and trade targets align for summer move

The Rangers could target an unproven center with upside or a right winger without exceeding the $3-4 million window.

Columbus must complete Adam Fantilli’s contract before pursuing further changes, directly sequencing any Johnson availability.

Brock Boeser, Jake DeBrusk and Bryan Rust appear on the veteran trade list but carry higher acquisition costs than Johnson.

Frank Vatrano’s remaining two years at $4.5 million offer a low-risk alternative if the Ducks attach a sweetener.

Troy Terry’s $7 million cap hit would require the Rangers to send Schneider the other way to balance the books.

Matthew Knies trade chatter has already quieted, confirming high cost for proven top-six talent.

Timeline favors Rangers if Blue Jackets close RFAs quickly

Waddell stated explicitly that other Blue Jackets moves wait until RFAs finish, creating a clear window for Rangers inquiries.

Shane Wright and Connor Zary also appear on internal change-of-scenery lists, yet Johnson remains the most direct Columbus link.

Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko stay long shots given prior Ranger history and current market value.

The Rangers’ waiver-eligible depth players add further pressure to clear roster spots before training camp.

A completed Fantilli deal by late July would accelerate Columbus activity and open Johnson discussions.

The Rangers’ salary-cap position supports adding one $3-4 million player without further subtractions beyond Schneider.