The Rangers have several unrestricted free agents to deal with this offseason, including many who were key acquisitions at the trade deadline this season, with one of them being Tyler Motte.
Motte, who was acquired back in March for a fourth-round pick in next year's draft, played in just nine regular season games for the Blueshirts after the deal, and logged two points in the team's playoff run to the Eastern Conference Finals. He was an asset on the penalty kill, was a strong presence on the fourth line, and, perhaps most importantly, has a desire to remain in New York.
"I enjoyed being here, for sure," Motte told reporters on Monday. "Me and my fiancé moving across country, being a little closer to home, once we got settled, I think we felt really good here.
"From a hockey standpoint, it's a great organization, well-run top to bottom. Great support staff, great people around. That really goes a long way for players."
Of course, Motte's decision could come down to whatever team may offer him the best contract, and the Rangers may not be able to retain him unless he takes a more team-friendly deal due to other key players that need to be taken care of. But that's not on Motte's mind quite yet.
"I think free agency is still a bit aways, but having conversations with my agent, Rich, and see what happens," Motte said. "I can't speak who is interested, or how many, or what locations, but it will be my first time going through this process. We'll see how it goes.
"You're looking for the right opportunity and the right group to keep playing hockey this time of year."
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
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