Less than a week after parting ways with longtime defenseman Ryan Lindgren, the New York Rangers wasted little time addressing their defensive needs. In a pre-trade deadline move on Thursday, the Rangers acquired Carson Soucy from the Vancouver Canucks, bolstering their blue line for the playoff push.
This deal was facilitated by an earlier trade, where New York sent forward Reilly Smith to the Vegas Golden Knights in exchange for a third-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and forward prospect Brendan Brisson. By freeing up cap space and adding future assets, the Rangers positioned themselves to bring in Soucy, a steady defenseman known for his physicality and shot-blocking ability.
Breaking Down the Trade
The move signals the Rangers’ intent to maintain a strong defensive presence even after Lindgren’s departure. Soucy, who had been a reliable depth piece in Vancouver, brings a different but valuable skill set to New York. At 6’5” and 210 pounds, he adds size and reach, making him a formidable presence in the defensive zone.
Grading the Trade
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New York Rangers: B+
The Rangers needed reinforcements on defense, and Soucy fits the mold of a dependable, stay-at-home blueliner. While he doesn’t bring Lindgren’s exact style of play, he offers a solid physical edge and penalty-killing reliability. The trade makes sense given the team’s immediate needs, but its success will hinge on how well Soucy adapts to New York’s defensive structure. -
Vancouver Canucks: A-
The Canucks leveraged Soucy’s value effectively, moving him in exchange for future assets while maintaining roster flexibility. Given Vancouver’s depth on defense, parting with Soucy wasn’t a major blow, and they capitalized on an opportunity to add potential future pieces.
Final Thoughts
The Rangers’ defensive core looks different than it did a week ago, but the addition of Carson Soucy ensures they remain competitive in their pursuit of a deep playoff run. Whether this move fully compensates for Lindgren’s departure remains to be seen, but it’s a calculated decision that strengthens their blue line depth at a crucial time.
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