Report: Rangers & Oilers Linked to Former Maple Leafs Defenseman

As the 2024–25 NHL season kicks off, the New York Rangers and the Edmonton Oilers could still be on the lookout for defensive reinforcements.

Coming off winning the Presidents' Trophy and reaching the Stanley Cup Final respectively, both franchises are keeping their eyes on a veteran defenseman and former Toronto Maple Leafs blueliner.

The 41-year-old, currently a free agent, remains determined to extend his NHL career and is drawing interest from several teams, including the Rangers, according to a report from The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun.

Giordano's agent Rich Winter spoke to the Toronto Star’s Kevin McGran on June 20 and revealed his client still planned to play in the 2024-25 NHL season.

“Mark has made the decision that he’s playing for a few more years,” Winter said. “He feels very confident. He’s been talking to a lot of people who tell him, 'Don’t quit until they make you.'

"He clearly wants to play.”

Giordano has 1,148 games under his belt and spent last season with the Maple Leafs. The veteran, however, was scratched during their seven-game playoff series against the Boston Bruins.

"Giordano continues to chase an elusive Stanley Cup—making it a priority for him to try to land a depth job with one of the teams in contender mode," LeBrun wrote. "The Edmonton Oilers, Winnipeg Jets, Carolina Hurricanes and New York Rangers are among those seen as appealing possibilities."

Despite a season marred by injuries, the former Norris Trophy winner played 46 games for Toronto last year.

At this point in his career, Giordano could serve as a depth defenseman who wouldn’t be expected to play every night, while also bringing leadership to the locker room.

Related: Agent: Maple Leafs' Set to Battle Oilers for Veteran Mark Giordano