Chris Drury continues to tread cautiously, adding defenseman Justin Braun from the Philadelphia Flyers for a 2023 third round pick. The 34 year old Braun has played for both the Sharks and Flyers, and will be a UFA this Summer.
A right hander, the 6-2 203lb Minnesotan can play both sides, so it remains to be seen what the plans are for getting him into a game. He’s been primarily used as a second pair defenseman this year, averaging 20:02 of ice time a night, including 2:25 on the penalty kill. With 5 goals and 11 assists, he also has the ability to add a little offense, though his defensive game is what he’s more known for.
With 783 games of experience and another 100 in the playoffs, the Rangers will hoping he can bring a steadying presence to what is still a relatively young/inexperienced defensive corps.
Whether Braun will see time over Patrik Nemeth or Braden Schneider remains to be seen, though Gerard Gallant may prefer to go with the more experienced hand as the Rangers compete for playoff position and head into the post season.
Overall looks like a pretty good value trade, with little given up in exchange for what is probably just a rental for the remainder of the year.