New York Rangers trade rumors: 3 players linked to the team as trade deadline approaches

The New York Rangers have historically been one of the most active franchises in the trade market and free agency. It will be unsurprising to see the team make a move or two before the March 3 trade deadline.

The team currently sit in third place in the Metropolitan Division with a 28-14-8 record. Their 64 points now place them 12 behind the division-leading Carolina Hurricanes.

"I asked Artemi Panarin if he's been lobbying for the Rangers to add anyone in particular at the trade deadline, wink wink nudge nudge. He smirked. 'I have a Nokia phone. I don't read the news.'" - Mark Lazerus

The New York Rangers have one of the strongest rosters in the NHL, but they are not without weaknesses. The club may be looking for additional scoring to play alongside their superstars Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad.

Here is a look at three players the Rangers may look to add before the March 3 trade deadline.

1. Timo Meier reportedly sits atop the New York Rangers' trade list

The Rangers are reportedly in the market for a scoring forward, and Timo Meier may be the most suitable candidate for the club. The 26-year-old forward from St. Gallen, Switzerland, has enjoyed another productive season for the San Jose Sharks. Through 51 games played this season, Meier scored 28 goals and racked up 20 assists.

"Rangers reportedly eyeing Timo Meier as top deadline target." - theScore

Meier is a pending restricted free agent this coming offseason, with a qualifying offer valued at $10 million. The Sharks may be unwilling to sign the forward to such a lucrative extension, making him a prime candidate for the Rangers.

2. Patrick Kane could be another scoring winger who the Rangers may pursue

If the New York Rangers cannot land Meier, Chicago Blackhawks legend Patrick Kane may be another option for the team to pursue. The three-time Stanley Cup champion is a pending free agent, so his price tag may be cheaper than Meier's. However, some of his salary would need to be retained by the Blackhawks for a deal to go through.

3. Vladimir Tarasenko is another option

Much like Kane and Meier, Vladimir Tarasenko would provide the New York Rangers with elite scoring depth. The problem for New York would be the same as in the case of Kane, as Tarasenko's salary would put the team over the cap.

"Are the Rangers and Vladimir Tarasenko a trade match? Teaming up with @StapeAthletic⁩, we break down the fit, asset cost and other factors. #stlblues" - Jeremy Rutherford

However, if a deal can be worked out, the pending unrestricted free agent could be an elite scorer when healthy. His full no-trade clause will give the 31-year-old the ability to decide his fate for the remainder of the season, so he will want to go to New York.