What is next for Derek Stepan?

Feb 7, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Rangers center Derek Stepan (21) takes a shot against the Anaheim Ducks during the second period at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY SportsWith the New York Rangers protected players list out and the NHL Expansion Draft days away, we ponder the future of center Derek Stepan.

Now that the expansion draft trade deadline is in effect, Derek Stepan still remains employed by the New York Rangers.

The real question now is, “For how long?”

Stepan, who struggled to find the net and to win face-offs last season, has been a player the team looks up to for production over the past few seasons. The Rangers are in a race to figure out…