Once Devils center Scott Gomez hits the free agent market on July 1, the Rangers are expected to be hot on his trail, reports the New York Post.

Gomez, 27, is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the season and told the Post he will not negotiate a new deal with New Jersey until the year is complete.

"Even if it wouldn't be a distraction, the last thing I need is to get involved in that during the season," Gomez told The Post. "My focus is to help the team reach the ultimate goal of winning another Stanley Cup.

"It's not the right time to be thinking about a contract."


According to the paper, Gomez could get at least $6 million per year and the bidding is likely to start at five years and $30M on the two-time Cup-winner.

It's uncertain as to whether or not he'd want to return to the Devils, or if the team can even afford him, but the Post suggests the Rangers will be going after Gomez as soon as he's a free agent.