The Dylan McIlrath era in New York, which began in 2010 when the wrecking-ball defenseman was selected in the first round of the NHL draft, is over.
McIlrath, 24, who had cleared waivers and played four games in Hartford, was traded Tuesday afternoon to the Florida Panthers for defenseman Steven Kampfer and a conditional seventh-round draft pick in 2018. McIlrath must play 30 games for the Panthers for the pick to go to the Rangers.
General manager Jeff Gorton said McIlrath, who is known for his physical play rather than this puck-moving abilities, didn’t really fit the team’s current style.