Should the Rangers Trade Yandle?

Keith Yandle (Len Redkoles/NHLI via Getty Images)

There have been rumors of the New York Rangers offloading Keith Yandle since last offseason began, and they intensified this season as the trade deadline grows nearer. However, according to a recent report, the Rangers have possibly decided against moving the high-powered offensive defenseman because of the injury to team captain Ryan McDonagh.

This may be a blessing in disguise for the Rangers who have criminally underused Yandle this season by not putting him on the top line of the power play. Despite this, Yandle is the Rangers’ leading point getter for a defenseman with four goals and 25 assists for 29 points; he is a plus seven and he is third on the team in total shots taken with 115.

The Rangers gave up a ton to get Yandle from Phoenix one year ago and it would be foolish of them to just trade him away now. Even if they feel they cannot resign him in the offseason, it would be better to try and get the most out of Yandle this season and potential post season rather than trade away one of your best offensive threats for pennies on the dollar.

It’s not just McDonagh missing from the lineup — it’s also Rick Nash. That combination loss means the Rangers need Yandle more than ever. He is offensively skilled and a good defenseman as well. If the Rangers have any hope of making a deep playoff run this year they will hold on to Keith Yandle.