In a tactical move, Drury recently waived veteran Barclay Goodrow, effectively clearing a $3.642 million cap hit from the team’s finances. Goodrow was under contract until the 2026–27 off-season, and this maneuver has opened up vital cap space that could be the difference in securing new talent.

Despite a disappointing regular season where Goodrow scored just four goals and tallied eight assists in 80 games, finishing with a -13 plus/minus, he excelled in the postseason by scoring six goals in 16 playoff games. This performance highlights the complexity of the decision to waive him.

Controversial Decisions and Team Dynamics

The decision to waive Goodrow, who had a no-move clause that included 15 teams—one being the San Jose Sharks—was seen as “ruthless” by some, including New York Post reporter Larry Brooks. The Sharks claimed Goodrow off the wire, a move that underscores the Rangers’ focus on building a competitive roster without prioritizing sentimentality in player relationships.

“Drury and the hierarchy reached the conclusion that the Rangers needed to remove Goodrow’s $3,641,667 cap hit — through 2026-27 — from the ledger in order to compete for a championship. So they acted in cold blood.”

Larry Brooks of The New York Post

Looking Ahead: Rangers’ Off-Season Strategy

This offseason is ripe with opportunities for the Rangers, who are in dire need of an additional offensive threat. The team is also planning to extend contracts for key players such as Igor Shesterkin and Ryan Lindgren. The extra financial flexibility gained from Goodrow’s departure positions Drury to be more creative and less constrained in his approach to building the team for the upcoming season.