Ex-Kraken Wennberg Reveals Desires As Unrestricted Free Agent

Former Seattle Kraken Alex Wennberg relocated cross-country at the March 9 trade deadline. If he has his way, Wennberg won't be on the move again this summer.

When the New York Rangers were knocked out of the playoffs, the team's social media posted a short dressing room interview with Wennberg. He's a pending unrestricted free agent.

Regarding his Big Apple transition after being dealt by Seattle, Wennberg said, "It's been awesome. Obviously, disappointed with the ending, but time's been fine here. Coming to a good team, meeting new guys, being a part of the New York Rangers was amazing, really positive."

As a UFA, the 29-year-old Swedish forward indicated more than money will be involved in where he plays next. He also acknowledged the Rangers have to want him back. "I think this is a great spot. There's a lot more involved than what (I) want, but I would love to stay. Good memories so far from this place.

"What's important for me is to pick what I think is right. Me and my wife are going to figure it out. My mindset and focus has been playing here for the Rangers. I feel like I'm still here until we see what happens."

The highlight of Wennberg's short tenure in New York was his overtime goal in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final against the Florida Panthers. As it turned out, that would be the Blueshirts' last victory of the season. The Panthers eliminated the Rangers in six games.

Overall, in 34 combined regular season and playoff games, the center contributed two goals and five assists. "The production wasn't really there for me. We did good things, but for me to have that (OT winner) to look back on is going to be a good memory."

Many in New York media have speculated Wennberg could be a casualty of a Rangers numbers crunch, both in terms of roster construction and salary cap space.

"Despite a lack of offensive production, Wennberg seemed to be a good fit with the Rangers," wrote Forever Blueshirts . "He was a key penalty killer and filled the third-line center role which was an area that New York was desperately searching for prior to the deadline because of Filip Chytil’s injury absence. With Chytil now healthy, there may not be a spot for Wennberg on this roster."