Now that the Columbus Blue Jackets have officially been eliminated from the playoffs, the Rangers can move forward with their offseason plans.
The Rangers had narrowed their search for a new president to John Davidson, the current president of the Blue Jackets and former Rangers goalie and broadcaster.
Davidson is believed to have a clause in his contract that would allow him to leave his position and the Rangers are expected to put in an official request soon, according to Larry Brooks of The Post.
Once Davidson re-joins the organization, the Rangers can shift their focus to free agency, namely Blue Jackets winger Artemi Panarin, per Brooks.
Davidson is certainly familiar with Panarin. The 27-year-old, three-time All-Star had 87 points last season (28 goals, 59 assists) and could accelerate the Rangers' rebuilding process.
Yet the Rangers would likely have to compete with the Panters, Islanders and Blackhawks for Panarin, who will also come with a hefty pricetag.