Of all the Rangers’ key trade deadline acquisitions that are now heading to free agency, Andrew Copp may be the most coveted piece for New York to retain.
Copp logged 18 points in 16 games for the Rangers in the regular season, logged seven points with four goals in the team’s first-round series win over the Penguins, and all the while, refused to talk or think about his uncertain future.
"Since the trade deadline, I told my agent, 'go kick rocks, I’m not talking to you for a while,’” Copp laughed when speaking to reporters on Monday.
But now, decision time is approaching as teams will soon begin pitching the 27-year-old who is certainly a priority for New York, but the challenge will be affording him, especially if other teams come in with generous offers.
Copp will certainly be looking to take care of himself and get his worth, but he also knows how close this Rangers team came to the ultimate goal, and that they are poised to make another run.
“Over the next couple weeks, just continue to evaluate…and go from there,” Copp said. “Long term is not just next year, but hopefully 4-5 years.
“A lot to take in, a lot to hear, and then just make the best available decision. I’m not married to one thing or the other, but I definitely did enjoy my time here and definitely feels like there’s unfinished business, and definitely like the group and the direction this team is going.”
A similar sentiment was heard from Frank Vatrano, also a trade deadline acquisition who proved valuable to New York after arriving. One of three forwards acquired at the deadline, the Rangers simply may not have the ability or need to bring Vatrano back, but if they do, Vatrano seems to want to be a part of the team’s next bid at a deep playoff run.
“I have some unfinished business here,” Vatrano said. “I want to help this team win a Stanley Cup.
“The fans, everything here is world class. It’s been great to be a part of.”
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
Follow WFAN on Social Media
Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Twitch
Listen live to WFAN:
Audacy App | Online Stream | Smart Speaker (just say ‘Play W-F-A-N’)