Apr 26, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Tampa Bay Lightning right wing Oliver Bjorkstrand (22) looks on during warm-up before the game against the Montreal Canadiens in game four of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
The New York Rangers are bringing in veteran free-agent winger Oliver Bjorkstrand to potentially bolster their middle-six, if they can help him find his old form.
The 31-year-old Dane struggled mightily with the Tampa Bay Lightning after he was moved from the Seattle Kraken at the trade deadline two years ago. In 98 games with Tampa, he recorded just 17 goals with 24 assists.
Bjorkstrand normally flirted with 20 goals per season earlier in his career with the Columbus Blue Jackets and Seattle. He averaged 21 goals per year from 2018 to 2025, adding to value predicated on a sound defensive game and strong forechecking.
That style of two-way play is something the Rangers have missed within the depths of their forward lines, and a style that has to be replaced if they do find a trade candidate to unload veteran center Vincent Trocheck.
Rangers general manager Chris Drury has been busy retooling his squad. He pulled off a blockbuster before the draft to acquire 30-goal scorer Pavel Dorofeyev from the Vegas Golden Knights. He also has reportedly signed journeyman center Joe Veleno, who could figure to contribute to New York’s fourth line.
For more on Oliver Bjorkstrand and the Rangers, visit AMNY.com
