Kravtsov, only 23 years old, was the 9th overall selection for the Rangers in the 2018 draft. Despite showing promise as a young, physical winger with size and scoring ability, he was never able to carve out a role with the Rangers. It's been known that Kravtsov had requested a trade out of New York to find more playing time elsewhere. He makes only $875K against the cap on an scoring deal, and has only accrued 6 points in 28 games this season.
What's somewhat surprising regarding this trade is that Kravtsov was expected to be involved in the imminent deal that will send Patrick Kane to the Rangers. Regardless, the deal serves the Rangers' current goal of expending as much cap space as possible prior to acquiring Kane.
The return for Kravtsov isn't what you'd expect for a former first overall pick, but considering Kravtsov had spent considerable time in the KHL, requesting a trade, and serving a cap dump purpose, it is slightly low. The Rangers will receive Will Lockwood and a seventh round draft pick for Kravtsov.
