Pending UFA Strome hopes to re-sign with Rangers

Ryan Strome isn't seeking a new home as he enters unrestricted free agency this offseason.

"My first choice is to be a New York Ranger," Strome said, according to NHL.com's Dan Rosen. "I think I've given them an indication that's my feeling. If that's not the case, then we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

"Who knows what happens, but I've put everything into this team, and I think the guys in here have, and I would love nothing more to keep it going. I just feel like there's a bit of unfinished business."

The Tampa Bay Lightning eliminated the Rangers in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final last week. It also marked the first time New York qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in Strome's tenure with the club.

Strome joined the Rangers via trade from the Edmonton Oilers in 2018-19 and signed a two-year bridge deal as a restricted free agent in 2020. The 28-year-old has been productive since inking his new deal, managing 103 points in 130 games while averaging 18 minutes per night.

The Rangers are projected to have over $13 million in cap space this offseason, according to Cap Friendly. Strome is one of 10 players on the team in need of a new contract.