The New York Rangers and Tampa Bay Lightning completed a minor-league trade on Saturday morning, exchanging forwards in hopes of providing fresh opportunities for two players seeking a spark in their careers. The Rangers sent Hartford Wolf Pack forward Ryder Korczak to Tampa Bay in exchange for Syracuse Crunch forward Lucas Edmonds.
Korczak’s Journey with the Rangers
Korczak, 22, was a third-round pick (#75 overall) by the Rangers in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. Over three seasons with the Wolf Pack, Korczak appeared in 107 regular-season games, registering 31 points (12 goals, 19 assists) and a +4 rating. This season, he tallied 11 points (3 goals, 8 assists) in 35 games, maintaining his reputation as a dependable two-way player and one of Hartford’s stronger defensive forwards.
Korczak also gained playoff experience, contributing a goal and an assist in 10 Calder Cup Playoff games last year. Despite his solid defensive presence, Korczak struggled to cement a consistent role in Hartford’s lineup, often shuffling in and out this season.
Edmonds’ Track Record
Lucas Edmonds, 23, was drafted by the Lightning in the third round (#86 overall) of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. In 120 career AHL games with the Syracuse Crunch, Edmonds has notched 48 points (25 goals, 23 assists). This season, however, he has managed just five points (1 goal, 4 assists) in 26 games, indicating a need for a fresh start.
At nearly 24 years old—his birthday is just two days away—Edmonds will aim to rediscover his scoring touch with the Wolf Pack.
A Win-Win Scenario
This trade can be best described as a “change of scenery” deal for both players. Korczak, who has struggled to find a consistent role in Hartford, will now have the opportunity to carve out a more defined spot in Syracuse. Meanwhile, Edmonds gets a fresh start in Hartford, where he’ll look to reestablish his offensive game.
Statistically, Korczak’s defensive contributions stood out in Hartford. Among Wolf Pack forwards, he was tied for third in plus/minus (+4), trailing only Alex Belzile (+7) and Blade Jenkins (+5). Though the AHL’s plus/minus stat has its limitations, it highlights his reliability in his own zone.
Moving Forward
Edmonds won’t suit up for Hartford in tonight’s game against the Rochester Americans but will be an option for the Wolf Pack moving forward. For both players, this trade represents a new chapter and a chance to reignite their careers in the AHL.
