In a pretty big shift from expectations, Larry Brooks is reporting that the Rangers and pending UFAs Mats Zuccarello and Kevin Hayes are engaging in contract extension talks. This comes in stark contrast to earlier reports where the Rangers had not reached out to either camp and trades were all but expected.
As we get closer to the deadline, the Rangers are playing better hockey of late. Zuccarello and Hayes have been a major part of this, as they represent one-half of the primary scoring for the Rangers. Hayes has had a great season, and Zuccarello has been on an absolute tear over the past month.