Rangers’ Bjorkstrand Move Backfires? | New York Rangers News

**Corey** (0:00)
On July 19th, the New York Rangers went out and grabbed Oliver Bjorkstrand on a one-year deal worth $4.5 million.
The idea was to bring in some scoring for their top six, and Bjorkstrand is known for that. He put up 12 goals and 32 points last season with Tampa Bay, which isn't bad, but it makes you wonder about the bigger picture. Earlier this offseason, the Rangers apparently kicked the tires on a couple of other free agent wingers, Anthony Mantha and Eeli Tolvanen. Sources say they looked into it, but signing Bjorkstrand might have put those other pursuits on ice. The Rangers were looking for a one year rental in the three to four million dollar range, and Bjorkstrand fit that mold. Now, here's where it gets interesting. Anthony Mantha, who was 31, ended up signing with the New Jersey Devils for two years at $4.75 million per year. That's a bit more than what the Rangers were aiming for. And considering Mantha's injury history, it makes you question if the Rangers missed an opportunity by not pushing harder for him. Mantha had a rough year with injuries, playing only 13 games at one point. He bounced back last season, playing 81 games and having a solid year. But if he can stay healthy and keep producing, that Rangers move could look a little less smart down the line. As for Eeli Tolvanen, he's still out there unsigned. He also had a 12-goal season, similar to Bjorkstrand and was making $3.475 million dollars on his last deal.
That price point seems more in line with what the Rangers were looking to spend, so it's possible they might circle back to him if things don't pan. Out. I'm Corey with the story. That's your New York Rangers News Today update.
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