In addition, the Rangers retaining 50 percent of Nash's $7.8 million cap hit, the Bruins will retain part of Beleskey's $3.8 million hit. Beleskey's contract runs out after the 2019 season, so it's unlikely that he'll be part of the Rangers' long-term plans. He's struggled to even get on the ice for the Bruins, although the move may help him as he goes from a contender to a team that just needs direction.
Spooner will also be a free agent after this season, although his situation is trickier for the Rangers. Depending on how quick they expect their turnaround to be, he may be worth retaining after the season is up.
It's the kind of move you expect between a rebuilding team and the hottest team in hockey that has pushed itself into the Cup conversation. The Bruins get a proven veteran that helps this season but may not beyond it, whereas the Rangers get a solid package that includes a prospect, two picks, a player in his prime and a salary dump for the contender. It's a rare trade that it feels like both sides win, but this move makes a lot a sense for everyone involved