NHL trade rumor: NHL Insider claims Vladislav Gavrikov is going to New York, in a shocking early Free Agency twist

TOI Sports Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Jun 25, 2025, 00:15 IST

Text Size

Small
Medium
Large

Free agency doesn't start for another week, but according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Los Angeles Kings defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov has already picked his new team. The buzz? The New York Rangers have won the race. If true, this early move signals a major blue line boost for a team that’s been desperate for defensive reinforcements.

NHL trade rumor: NHL Insider claims Vladislav Gavrikov is going to New York, in a shocking early Free Agency twist

Vladislav Gavrikov #84 of the Los Angeles Kings (Credit: Getty Images)

The NHL’s free agency window doesn’t officially open until July 1, but that hasn’t stopped rumors from dominating headlines. The latest involves Los Angeles Kings defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov, who, according to Elliotte Friedman, has already made his decision. And it’s a big one.It’s a twist that few saw coming. Gavrikov, a key presence on the Kings’ blue line, had largely flown under the radar this offseason. With most speculation focused on flashier names, his quiet status may have been a strategic move. While other free agents have been busy entertaining offers, Gavrikov appears to have acted early and decisively.

Vladislav Gavrikov Highlights

New York Rangers fill blue line need with Gavrikov

If the reports are true, the Rangers may finally be addressing a long-standing concern, defensive depth. Vladislav Gavrikov brings exactly the kind of physical, stabilizing presence New York lacked during their 2024 playoff run.While the contract details remain unclear, the fit seems logical. Gavrikov plays a smart, positional game. He’s defensively responsible, logs big minutes, and won’t shy away from physical matchups. That’s precisely what New York has needed to complement their offensively skilled back end.

The Los Angeles Kings are set to lose a key defenseman

On the flip side, this news is a tough blow for the Los Angeles Kings. Gavrikov had been one of their most reliable defensive players since arriving from Columbus. Letting him walk without a known replacement only raises more questions for a Kings roster that’s still in the middle of a competitive push.Whether Los Angeles underestimated his market value or couldn’t match the Rangers’ offer, the outcome is a significant loss for the Kings’ blue line.Free agency may be a week away, but the Vladislav Gavrikov sweepstakes might already be over. And if Friedman’s sources are right, the New York Rangers are walking away with one of the biggest steals before the bidding even begins.Also Read: The NHL rumor depicts that the Philadelphia Flyers are showing strong interest in Bowen Byram and JJ Peterka if the asking price is right

For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here.
Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik’s inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here

About the Author

TOI Sports Desk

The TOI Sports Desk excels in a myriad of roles that capture the essence of live sporting events and deliver compelling content to readers worldwide. From running live blogs for India and non-India cricket matches to global spectacles featuring Indian talents, like the Chess World Cup final featuring Praggnanandhaa and the Badminton World Championships semifinal featuring HS Prannoy, our live coverage extends to all mega sporting events. We extensively cover events like the Olympics, Asian Games, Cricket World Cups, FIFA World Cups, and more. The desk is also adept at writing comprehensive match reports and insightful post-match commentary, complemented by stats-based articles that provide an in-depth analysis of player performances and team dynamics. We track news wires for key stories, conduct exclusive player interviews in both text and video formats, and file content from print editions and reporters. We keep track of all viral stories, trending topics and produce our own copies on the subjects. We deliver accurate, engaging, and up-to-the-minute sports content, round the clock.

End of Article