Ryane Clowe traded to New York Rangers

Kevin Allen, USA TODAY Sports | USATODAY

The New York Rangers added size and grit up front when they acquired 6-2 winger Ryane Clowe from the San Jose Sharks on Tuesday for second- and third-round picks in June and a conditional second-rounder in 2014.

Clowe, 30, waived his no-trade clause to go to the Rangers after also being given the opportunity to talk contract with the Vancouver Canucks. Clowe, who has spent his entire career with the Sharks, is scheduled to be an unrestricted free agent next summer.

"It seemed like geography was a (determining) factor," said Canucks general manager Mike Gillis, who indicated he had spoken to Clowe's representative about coming to Vancouver.

According to Gillis, Clowe liked the Vancouver situation, but preferred to move to the Eastern Conference team.

If the Rangers reach the Eastern Conference final or re-sign Clowe, the Sharks get a second-round pick in 2014. If neither happens, the pick owed becomes a fifth-rounder.

"These deals involving players who have spent a substantial amount of time in and contributed much to San Jose are difficult but it's also important for us to get value for a player who is set to be an unrestricted free agent," Sharks general manager Doug Wilson said.

Gillis said Wilson didn't have any issue about trading Clowe to the rival Canucks.

"Doug Wilson is a very pragmatic guy," Gillis said

Although Clowe has been a 20-goal scorer during his career, he has no goals and 11 assists this season in 28 games. At 225 pounds, he provides a physical presence.