**Could the Rangers Target Boone Jenner to Bolster Their Playoff Push?**
The New York Rangers have seemingly begun to turn things around this season. With two straight wins and a 6-3-1 record in their last 10 games, the Blueshirts have climbed within striking distance of a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference and look poised to keep climbing.
But as any contender knows, a little extra help can never hurt. The Rangers could certainly use some added depth and experience, especially with ongoing injury concerns. The recent return of Vincent Trocheck has already provided a major boost. But what if another key piece could hit the club?
Enter Columbus Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner.
**Why Boone Jenner Could Be a Fit**
Jenner has become the subject of trade speculation this season, as noted in a November 13 piece by The Fourth Period. With the Blue Jackets struggling once again, contenders are reportedly keeping an eye on the veteran forward. For the Rangers, this could be an opportunity to add a versatile player who can fill a major hole in the lineup.
**Proposed Trade**
Here’s how a potential deal could look:
– **Rangers receive:** Boone Jenner (F)
– **Blue Jackets receive:** Juuso Parssinen, 2026 first-round pick
Before any Rangers fans get up in arms, it’s important to note the first-round pick would likely be the price if Columbus retains half of Jenner’s $3.725 million cap hit. Without such retention, making the deal work would be nearly impossible. Jenner is in the final year of his current deal, so retaining 50% would not be out of the question for the Blue Jackets.
It’s also worth noting that the Rangers have two first-round picks. Giving up the one belonging to the Carolina Hurricanes may be a reasonable move considering the return.
**How Jenner Fits into the Rangers’ Lineup**
So, how would Boone Jenner actually fit into the Rangers’ lineup? While Jenner isn’t necessarily a top-six player, he certainly could be used as one in the right circumstances. If Gabe Perreault is bumped down the lineup, Artemi Panarin could move back up—with Jenner sliding in on the left alongside Trocheck and Alexis Lafreniere.
Coach Mike Sullivan could also choose to use Jenner at center. That move could result in Noah Laba shifting to a wing spot, with Conor Sheary likely dropping to the fourth line. Jenner’s versatility is precisely what the Rangers need, particularly with the unpredictability of injuries. Having a player who can move up and down the lineup is a highly valuable asset.
**Jenner Comes with a Caveat**
Adding Boone Jenner isn’t a cure-all solution for New York. He isn’t a high-end scorer who will consistently support the likes of Trocheck, Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and J.T. Miller. Jenner is more of a solid depth player who does a bit of everything—and that’s exactly what the Rangers could use at this stage of the season.
If the team is looking for more than just pure scoring, Jenner fits the bill. His experience and leadership are also significant qualities that could benefit the Rangers’ locker room moving forward.
**Final Thoughts**
If there’s a legitimate opportunity to land Boone Jenner, the Rangers would be wise to at least explore the possibility. His versatility, experience, and leadership could make all the difference as New York looks to solidify its playoff position and make a real run this year.
https://heavy.com/sports/nhl/new-york-rangers/rangers-trade-idea-jenner/
