Larry Brooks reported yesterday that the Rangers are supposedly interested in Edmonton’s Ryan Smyth. According to Brooks, Smyth is willing to waive his no-movement clause to come to New York. While Smyth would probably fit the Rangers style of play, one has to wonder the legitimacy of this rumor.

This past summer Smyth requested that the Los Angeles Kings (a team on the rise) trade him back to Edmonton, so he could finish his career as an Oiler. It seems peculiar that a 35 year old nearing retirement, who chose to go home over competing for the Cup, would want to be traded back to a contender.

Now don’t get me wrong. The net presence of Ryan Smyth is a big part of the Oilers power play and I’m sure he could provide some secondary scoring off the forecheck. But what do you give up for a 35 year old who will likely return to Edmonton this summer? If the rumor is true, my offer would obviously be Wolski.

Of course the Oilers are rebuilding, so I imagine they would also want someone younger like a Mats Zuccarello or perhaps a prospect. Gun to my head I wouldn’t move a prospect for a rental, but I’d consider moving Zukes, as I’m sure he sees the writing on the wall.

Anyway, Brooksie is probably just trying to sell papers, but I thought I’d break this one down for ya anyway.

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