The New York Rangers have re-signed defenseman Ryan Lindgren to a one-year, $4.5 million contract, avoiding salary arbitration. Lindgren, 26, played 76 games last season, recording 17 points and 103 blocked shots, and was instrumental in the Rangers’ run to the Eastern Conference Final.
- Ryan Lindgren signed a one-year, $4.5 million contract with the New York Rangers.
- The contract helps the Rangers manage their salary cap ahead of important free-agent decisions next summer.
- This deal avoids arbitration and sets the stage for potential long-term talks.
Rangers Complete Offseason by Signing Ryan Lindgren
The New York Rangers finished their offseason work by signing Ryan Lindgren to a one-year, $4.5 million contract.
Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman first reported the deal, which was made just before Lindgren’s arbitration hearing.
This contract secures Lindgren for another season and helps the Rangers manage their salary cap for the future.
Ryan Lindgren’s Determination Boosts Rangers’ Performance
Ryan Lindgren, a 26-year-old defenseman, is important for the Rangers and often plays alongside Adam Fox.
In his six seasons with the Rangers, Lindgren has played 333 games, scoring three goals and 17 points last season. He is known for his tough playing style and willingness to get injured for the team, earning him a lot of respect.
Even with injuries, he often returns to play quickly, showing his determination. As coach Peter Laviolette said, “He’s a warrior.”
Cap Management & Future Decisions for the Rangers
The one-year contract is a smart move by Rangers’ General Manager Chris Drury.
With star goalie Igor Shesterkin becoming a free agent next summer and key players like K’Andre Miller and Alexis Lafrenière needing new contracts, the Rangers need to be careful with their salary cap.
Right now, after Lindgren’s deal, they have $623,476 in cap space, which they could increase to $2.8 million by the trade deadline.
Lindgren’s contract will make him a free agent next summer, giving the Rangers time to decide if they want to keep him long-term.
The decision will likely hinge on how well Lindgren performs this season and how sustainable his physical play style proves to be.
Rangers Solidify Defense and Plan for Cap Flexibility
The Rangers’ roster is mostly set, with Lindgren joining Adam Fox, Zac Jones, K’Andre Miller, Jacob Trouba, and Chad Ruhwedel on defense. This gives the Rangers a strong defense for the new season.
The team’s cap space plan includes possible changes, like starting Adam Edstrom in the AHL to create more space. This would leave them with 13 forwards and seven defensemen, freeing up about $1.47 million.
If managed well, this could give the Rangers around $6.7 million to use by the trade deadline, allowing for potential trades or new players.
Future of Lindgren’s Contract Depends on Performance
While Lindgren’s contract is only for one year, it allows for future discussions. The Rangers can talk about a long-term deal in January, depending on how well Lindgren plays and their salary cap situation.
For now, the focus is on making the most of the current roster for the upcoming season.