Elliotte Friedman reveals why Rangers passed on Connor Zary

According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts Podcast, the New York Rangers looked into Calgary Flames forward Connor Zary but passed on acquiring him. Friedman reported that Zary's $3.775 million cap hit was the primary obstacle preventing the Rangers and other clubs from making a move or claiming him off waivers.

The Rangers currently have approximately $376,000 in salary cap space, making the 25-year-old forward's contract unfeasible without roster adjustments. Writer Nestor Quixtan notes that while New York could use depth down the middle, a deal would likely require salary retention by Calgary or a mutual contract termination to become viable.