Elliotte Friedman reveals the New York Rangers are set to acquire former 4th overall pick for free

The New York Rangers could find a spot in the roster for Jesse Puljujarvi. Puljujarvi is a Finnish forward, who has played the majority of his NHL career with the Edmonton Oilers.

While he's failed to find a home in the league, the Rangers could swoop in and claim him.

He was unable to find a full-time spot in Pittsburgh, as the team has no room for him in NHL But the Rangers could find room for him as a depth option in Hartford.

Puljujarvi likely has NHL aspirations still and could find a fresh start with the Rangers system. Even better since his $800K contract is cheap, the team could bury him in the AHL as a depth option for injuries when he does earn another look in the league.

This season he'd only play 26 games for the Penguins, and would tally only 9 points (3 G, 6 A). His short stint in Wilkes-Barre Scranton only saw him post 3 points in 4 games.

But, Puljujarvi's case is a lot like another misfit in the NHL. Sonny Milano, he couldn't make it work in Columbus or Calgary but has finally found a home in Washington under Spencer Carberry.

Is it a matter of wasted talent, or mismanagement?

It could be both, but in the NHL it's arguable that his full potential has been tapped into as a former 4th overall pick.

He's had the burden of expectations in a large market like Edmonton placed on his shoulders since 2016. Now, if he was claimed and is developed without pretense, whose to say what could happen?

He's played quick stints in Carolina, and Pittsburgh since the Edmonton Oilers gave up on him.

In 382 NHL games, he's scored 127 points (57 G, 50 A) and could be an affordable depth addition to the Rangers lineup.

But, if he clears waivers it's difficult not to think he'd explore available options in Europe, including Finland.

Puljujarvi makes only $800K AAV, and GM Chris Drury could find use for him as a depth option in the AHL. Could he become another Jimmy Vesey?