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[New York Rangers]

Rangers set to face several changes as NHL, NHLPA near new CBA agreement

Stephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn ImagesStephen R. Sylvanie-Imagn Images

The days of the New York Rangers walking into Madison Square Garden dressed in tailored suits and ties could soon be a thing of the past. As part of a new labor deal between the NHL and NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA), a proposed change would eliminate the League’s long-standing dress code starting in the 2026-27 season — a change that will cause debates in a sport where tradition runs deep.

That is just one element of a broader Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) framework the League and players’ union are working to get done, with a public announcement possible as soon as Friday ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman confirmed Wednesday that the two sides are closing in on an agreement that would extend the current CBA by four years, carrying through the 2029-30 season.

For those unaware, the CBA is essentially the agreement that governs everything from player salaries and contract lengths to health benefits, scheduling, rules, and travel. The current agreement, signed back in 2013 and extended during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, is set to expire in September 2026.

“This whole process has been trending positive.” Bettman said following the Board of Governors meeting in Las Vegas, where he gave as what he describes as a “quite extensive” update on the negotiations, “The relationship is in a great place. (NHLPA head) Marty [Walsh] and I have a terrific relationship. We don’t always agree on everything, but it’s constructive and professional. And so, I think things are good.”

The two sides are not ready to begin the formal ratification process just yet, as one final issue remains unresolved. Once an understanding is reached, both the Board of Governors and the NHLPA’s representatives will need to vote on it before it becomes official.

Reports state that changes could indicate an expanded regular season, new limits on loopholes, adjusted contract term limits, and updates to players benefits and rights.

Related: Dysfunctional Rangers focused more on ’emotional sh–‘ than playing hockey last season: Michael Peca

Biggest changes Rangers can expect with new CBA​

Dress code no more​

Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

One change that’s likely to spark plenty of debate is the elimination of the NHL’s League’s long-standing dress code, which would go into effect starting in the 2026-27 season. Hockey is the only one of the four major American sports that requires players to wear suits on game days, and many fans feel it seperates hockey players from the rest — making them look professional and classy.

It’s a noticeable difference, especially for teams like the Rangers, when the MSG walk-ins have almost become a fashion show. From Henrik Lundqvist’s designer fits to Artemi Panarin’s flashy style or Mika Zibanejad’s classic look, the MSG hallway often doubles as a runway. The change will open the door for self-expression, something we see in the NBA and NFL all the time, but new territory for a league built on tradition.

Scheduling & structure​

Another major change coming in the new CBA is the expansion of the regular season from 82 to 84 games, starting in the 2026-27 season. For the Rangers, that means a more balanced schedule — and more games against division rivals. With the League now at 32 teams, the new format would have the Rangers play four games against every Metropolitan Division opponent, three against teams in the Atlantic, and two against every Western Conference club. That fixes the issue in the schedule where the Rangers only saw two division opponents three times a year.

To help manage the added games, the preseason would be cut down to four games, and veterans with over 100 NHL games of experience would only be allowed to appear in two of them. It gives younger players more preseason reps, and lessens the wear and tear on more established players.

Contract limits & LTIR changes​

The new CBA would also bring changes to contract limits, reducing the maximum deals moving forward. Extensions would be capped at seven years instead of eight, and unrestricted free agents would only be able to sign for a maximum of six years, down from the current seven. For a team like the Rangers with several key players either approaching the end of their contracts or due for an extension, the timing of these implications could be important.

Artemi Panarin is set to hit free agency in 2026, just before the new limits kick in. That means the sides would need to act fast if an eight-year extension is on the table, though that’s highly unlikely since Panarin will be 34 at that point. Braden Schneider is another name to watch. He’ll be an RFA in 2026 under the new rules, and the Rangers would lose the ability to lock him up for eight years unless a deal is reached beforehand.

The League is also planning to part ways with the deferred salary structures, a tactic used to spread cap hits out over time. Also, a new playoff salary cap system is expected to limit how teams use the long-term injured reserve (LTIR) loophole to stack rosters before the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Player rights & benefits​

Another change is that teams would retain the rights to unsigned draft picks until that player turns 22, regardless of whether they’re playing in the NCAA, CHL, or overseas.

Another interesting addition would introduce full-time Emergency Backup Goalie (EBUG) positions. And off the ice, players would get expanded health insurance and post-career support, while playoff bonuses are set to double.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/nhl-news-and-rumors/changes-nhl-nhlpa-new-cba/

 

[New York Rangers]

Rangers land 1st-round talent Malcolm Spence on Day 2 of 2025 NHL Draft: ‘great pick’

Though the New York Rangers didn’t have a pick in the first-round of the 2025 NHL Draft, many hockey experts believe they landed a first-round talent anyway on Day 2 of the proceedings, when they selected Malcolm Spence No. 43 overall.

That the highly-skilled forward from Erie in the OHL lasted 11 picks into the second round surprised many draft gurus, with Mike Kelly commenting on social media “Surprised Malcolm Spence fell to 43. Great pick by the Rangers.”

Certainly, the Rangers were pleased that Spence was still there when they were on the clock for the first time in this year’s draft Saturday.

“We’ve valued him for a few years now … and we were happy he was there at 43,” Rangers director of player personnel and amateur scouting John Lilley told reporters after the draft concluded. “I think he was projected to go quite a bit higher. So when the opportunity presented itself, we were thrilled to get him in that spot.”

A day to remember forever. pic.twitter.com/PfkPVy1pK4

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) June 28, 2025

Spence is a big (6-foot-1, 203 pounds), rugged forward, one who’s a complete player at both ends of the ice. He scored 32 goals and finished with 73 points in 65 games last season, and totaled 177 points (67 goals, 110 assists) in 195 games over the past three seasons with Erie.

A 200-foot player who skates extremely well and is respected for his high character on and off the ice, Spence projects to be a trusted middle-six forward one day in the NHL.

“I’m a fast, physical player that plays with a lot of pace and high-end skill,” Spence said when asked for his own personal scouting report. “I’m going to be a guy that plays in all situations. I’m going to be a guy that’s called upon for his teammates whatever they need.”

An alternate captain with Erie, Spence added, “I’ve been a leader my whole life, going to continue to do that.”

Spence lost about 15 pounds last season because of a tongue infection which limited his intake of solid food. That, and inconsistency with his overall game, likely knocked Spence out of the first round, though that hardly seemed to bother him.

“I was New York’s first pick and I have some family out there,” he said. “It worked out really well. I’m really excited that they took a chance on me and believed in me when a lot of the other people didn’t.”

Spence is committed to the University of Michigan next fall when he’ll turn 19. He and the Rangers believe this is the best path for his development, not unlike with their top pick last year, defenseman EJ Emery, who’s playing collegiately at North Dakota.

“There are some parts of my game, maybe skill-wise, that might be ready. But I know physically, I’m not,” Spence explained. “I know going to Michigan is going to give me more runway time. However long it takes for me to jump in and be an impact player, that’s what I want to do. I don’t really have a timeline on it. I’m not going to rush things.”

Spence is also thrilled to join his good friend and former Erie teammate Carey Terrance in the Rangers organization. Terrance, Erie’s captain this past season, was acquired by the Rangers from the Anaheim Ducks in the recent Chris Kreider trade.

“It’s something pretty special,” Spence said. “Carey’s one of my closest friends. He usually spends time at my house during the summer, and will come down and hang out. And beyond hockey, we’re just really, really good friends off the ice. So, for me to be in an organization where I have one of my best friends there, it’s a pretty cool feeling, knowing that I get to be there with Carey on the daily. Just like I did the past three years, it’s pretty remarkable. Really excited to see him.”

Related: New York Rangers 2025 NHL Draft tracker: Selection, analysis for each pick

Malcolm Spence heads Rangers 2025 draft class of 8 players​

GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Despite sending their first-round pick (No. 12 overall) to the Pittsburgh Penguins to complete the J.T. Miller trade, the Rangers had eight picks heading into Day 2 of the draft, and held on to each one. Their eight selections almost equaled their total from the 2023 and 2024 drafts combines (nine selections).

Five of the eight selections were defensemen. That included 6-foot-5 bruiser Sean Barnhill, whom the Rangers grabbed at No. 70 overall in the third round. New York also landed 6-foot-4 defenseman Evan Passmore from Barrie of the OHL in the sixth round (No. 171 overall).

Selecting towering prospects is a growing trend for the Rangers. Adam Edstrom (6-foot-6, 2019 draft), Matt Rempe (6-foot-9, 2020), Dylan Roobroeck (6-foot-7, 2023) and Nathan Aspinall (6-foot-7, 2024) preceded Barnhill and Passmore.

In recent years, the Rangers drafted mostly United States-born prospects, but that changed this weekend. Only one of their picks this year — Barnhill, an Arizona native who played for Dubuque in the USHL — is from the U.S. Spence and Passmore were born in Canada; and the rest are from Europe.

#NYR 2025 Draft Class:

No. 43 – LW Malcolm Spence
No. 70 – RHD Sean Barnhill
No. 89 – LHD Artyom Gonchar
No. 111 – C Mikkel Eriksen
No. 139 – LHD Zeb Lindgren
No. 166 – RW Samuel Jung
No. 171 – RHD Evan Passmore
No. 203 – LHD Felix Färhammar

— Mollie Walker (@MollieeWalkerr) June 28, 2025

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...ent-malcolm-spence-2025-nhl-draft-great-pick/

 

[New York Rangers]

New York Rangers Daily: Reason for optimism after NHL Draft; Mitch Marner sign & trade discussed

Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesKirby Lee-Imagn Images

Let’s be honest. No matter how positive or pessimistic you are in the immediate aftermath of the 2025 NHL Draft, we really won’t be able to properly assess if the New York Rangers did a good job or not with their eight selections until several years down the road.

So, we’re not posting a winners and losers list from the 2025 draft here at Forever Blueshirts any time soon.

But it’s hard not to be excited about the Rangers landing Malcolm Spence with their first pick of the draft, No. 43 overall. The 18-year-old forward is big (6-foot-1, 203 pounds), strong and fast, and scored 32 goals in 65 games with Erie of the OHL last season. He’s also a committed two-way player, who plays a 200-foot game and can be trusted defensively.

Toss in his well-earned reputation as a natural leader and high-character person, on and off the ice, and you can see why so many hockey experts labeled Spence as the steal of the draft.

Yes, there are inconsistencies in his game. Yes, he had an infection that caused him to lose a lot of weight last season because he couldn’t eat solid food for an extended stretch. Yes, even Spence admitted Saturday he needs to mature more physically before he’s ready for the NHL.

It’s not all perfect for the University of Michigan commit.

But, for sure, there’s plenty there to feel really good about Malcolm Spence. And the simple fact that the Rangers made eight picks in the draft — after totaling nine the previous two years combined — is reason for some optimism. The odds have to be better that you hit on some of these players the more picks you have, right?

John Lilley, who heads up the Rangers draft each year, said they saw something in 6-foot-5 defenseman Sean Barnhill, the No. 70 overall pick, who many experts thought was a reach. Some draft gurus were smitten with Norwegian center Mikkel Eriksen, New York’s fourth-round pick. Others raved about sixth-round pick Evan Passmore, a 6-foot-4 defenseman from Barrie in the OHL.

That’s all well and good. But no rushing to judgement here. Let these boys develop into men as players in the coming years before we decide to grade this draft class.

Next step: Rangers development camp in Westchester next week.

New York Rangers news​

Here’s our complete draft tracker for the Rangers, with analysis on each selection this year.

The Rangers are being lauded for making a “great pick” by landing Malcolm Spence in the second round, No. 43 overall.

Spence and Matthew Schaefer were roommates at Erie and now they are on opposite sides of the intense Rangers-Islanders rivalry. Even Spence admitted that it’s a bit “awkward” now.

For his part, Schaefer immediately fueled the rivalry with the Rangers after the Islanders selected him with the No. 1 overall pick in the draft.

Speaking of the Rangers and Islanders, Igor Shesterkin was selected as the top Russian goalie in the NHL by none other than his local counteroart — and bestie — Ilya Sorokin in a recent interview.

Looking ahead to NHL free agency, which begins Tuesday, here are the best available players on the open market for the Rangers and other teams to consider.

NHL news and rumors​

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Sportsnaut: Not all of the top storylines from NHL Draft weekend related directly to the draft.

NHL.com: Here’s really good breakdown by Mike Morreale of all the top draft-related moments this past weekend.

The Athletic ($$): You already know that we don’t like quick winners/losers takes after the draft. But, we do respect Scott Wheeler enough to share his winners and losers list.

TSN: So, the decentralized draft? “Early returns certainly weren’t positive,” Chris Johnston reported on Insider Trading. That might be an understatement.

Detroit Hockey Now: The Red Wings fortified their goaltending position when they acquired John Gibson in a big trade with the Anaheim Ducks on Saturday.

Sportsnet: The Toronto Maple Leafs are desperately trying to work out a sign-and-trade deal with the Vegas Golden Knights for UFA Mitch Marner.

NYI Hockey Now: After a very busy weekend, the Islanders reportedly are close to signing defenseman Alexander Romanov to a long-term contract extension.

TSN: The Calgary Flames signed pending RFA defenseman Kevin Bahl to a six-year, $32.1 million contract.

Florida Hockey Now: Panthers general manager Bill Zito is still confident he can re-sign pending UFAs Brad Marchand and Aaron Ekblad before July 1 free agency, but admits he has a “Plan B and Plan C” if unable.

Daily Faceoff: The St. Louis Blues quietly took care of an important piece of business Saturday by re-signing backup goalie Joel Hofer to a two-year, $6.8 million contract.

Sportsnet: Edmonton Oilers general manager Stan Bowman admitted he’s got a lot on his plate at the moment, but did say he plans to work on a contract extension for coach Kris Knoblauch “in time.”

Sportsnet: Right when the Rangers were selecting forward Malcolm Spence in the second round of the NHL Draft, the Ottawa Senators were announcing that they acquired defenseman Jordan Spence (no relation) in a trade with the Los Angeles Kings.

Seattle Times: General manager Jason Botterill said that the Kraken will not be buying out the remainder of Philipp Grubauer’s contract, despite the goalie’s poor tenure in Seattle, to date.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...-nhl-draft-mitch-marner-sign-trade-discussed/

 

[New York Rangers]

Junior roomies Malcolm Spence, Matthew Schaefer set to join Rangers-Islanders rivalry

Malcolm Spence and Matthew Schaefer were teammates and roommates with Erie of the Ontario Hockey League. But they’ll be on opposite sides of the New York Rangers rivalry with the New York Islanders after each was taken with his new team’s first pick at the 2025 NHL Draft in Los Angeles.

The Islanders selected Schaefer, a defenseman, with the No. 1 pick on Friday night. The Rangers, who didn’t have a first-round selection, chose Spence on Saturday with their second-rounder, the 43rd overall pick.

Schaefer took a jab at the Rangers a few minutes after being selected, not knowing that his roomie would soon be a Blueshirt the next day.

A day to remember forever. pic.twitter.com/PfkPVy1pK4

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) June 28, 2025

“I’ve heard a lot about that rivalry,” Schaefer told the NHL Draft Class podcast. “I hate losing, so I’m looking forward to going and just beating them every time we play them.”

He and Spence played together with Erie the past two seasons. Now they’re in line to be rivals.

“He’s one of my closest friends, and you want to have your buddies succeed, but a little awkward now with the Rangers and Islanders,” Spence said.

Their friendship/rivalry wouldn’t be unique. Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin and his Islanders counterpart, Ilya Sorokin, compete fiercely on the ice but have been buddies since their days playing in Russia. Of course, they square off at opposite ends of the ice and don’t have to make contact with each other, as Spence and Schaefer will when they face each other.

Related: New York Rangers 2025 NHL Draft tracker: Selection, analysis for each pick

Junior roommates Malcolm Spence, Matthew Schaefer join Rangers rivalry with Islanders​

Spence didn’t immediately put the Rangers-Islanders rivalry angle together – he didn’t make the connection until a reporter asked him about Schaefer and their relationship.

“The second you said it I was thinking about it,” Spence said. “It’s a little rivalry now, but I know with ‘Schaef’, we want to be competitive so it’s going to bring the best out of each other. I’m really excited for both of our careers.”

The junior teammates won’t face each other right away. Schaefer is likely to begin his career on Long Island in the fall, but Spence is headed for the University of Michigan – where he’ll try to prove the rest of the League wrong for letting him slide into the second round. He was ranked 17th on NHL Central Scouting’s final list of North American skaters, but 17 skaters ranked after him were selected before him in the draft.

“I’m really excited to get going.”

More from Malcolm Spence: https://t.co/OfxmJR7kwv pic.twitter.com/Vtdh2s5HJJ

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) June 28, 2025

“I think there were some expectations that were set for myself and obviously I went a little later than I thought I was going to go,” Spence explained. “For me, that’s just going to be more motivation. I’m really happy that I’m the Rangers’ first pick. To me, that shows they really believe in me. To go to an organization like that and play in front of that fan base in that city, it’s something cool. I’m just really excited.”

Spence will see one familiar face at Rangers development camp next week. He’ll be with another Erie teammate, forward Carey Terrance, who was acquired on June 12 in the trade that sent longtime Rangers forward Chris Kreider to the Anaheim Ducks.

Spence and Terrance played on the same line in Erie the past two seasons. Spence had 73 points (32 goals, 41 assists) in 65 games this season. Terrance, a 20-year-old who was taken by the Ducks with the 59th overall pick in 2023, had 39 points (20 goals, 19 assists) in 45 games.

GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA TODAY NETWORK

“That was my first thought when I put the jersey on, maybe I’ll get to play with Carey again, which is pretty cool,” Spence said. “Definitely will give him a call after this.”

Spence has gotten a taste of the Big Apple. His sister, Camille, a dancer and actress, recently graduated from Pace University, which has a campus in downtown Manhattan — a subway ride from Madison Square Garden.

“We were in New York for my sister’s graduation, so we got to tour around there,” he said. “We just went around the city, walked around. It’s a pretty cool spot. Really excited to go there and be in the big NYC. It doesn’t get better than being with the Rangers. It’s New York City. You’re in front of the bright lights and for me, I thrive playing in atmospheres like that.”

Schaefer won’t be far away at Islanders development camp — his first stop in trying in trying to live up to being the No. 1 pick in the draft.

In the meantime, there will be texts and chirps — “We’ll definitely have some words, for sure,” Spence said.

They’re still friends. But the rivalry is on.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...haefer-set-to-join-rangers-islanders-rivalry/

 

[New York Rangers]

5 realistic Rangers options in 2025 NHL free agency, including Vladislav Gavrikov

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn ImagesIsaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The New York Rangers head into the start of NHL free agency with approximately $13.14 million in salary cap space, and without a resolution yet on restricted free agents K’Andre Miller and Will Cuylle. This will hinder what the Rangers will be able to accomplish once the free agency begins Tuesday at Noon ET, but you’d have to think they’ll still be involved to some degree.

To assume the Rangers will run it back with the exact roster that didn’t make the playoffs this past season doesn’t seem like something team owner James Dolan would sign off on. Even minimal additions will have to be made perhaps without a resolution on some of the rest of the roster, cautiously of course. Teams are allowed to be 10 percent over the cap during the offseason.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and it’s possible July 1 comes and goes without all their questions answered. But, let’s dive into some realistic free agency targets for the Rangers.

Related: Zac Jones, Arthur Kaliyev don’t receive qualifying offers from Rangers, become free agents July 1

Vladislav Gavrikov (D)​

The hulking 6-foot-3, 220-pound defensive defenseman has been linked to the Rangers all offseason. With the Rangers looking to be harder to play against on the back end, it would be difficult to find a better solution in the market.

The mutual interest and excellent fit are well and good. But Gavrikov won’t come cheaply. Not after Ivan Provorov, the best Gavrikov comp as a top-four, left-shot defenseman, re-signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday for seven years at $8.5 million annually.

Ouch.

Still, Gavrikov appears to be the Rangers’ top UFA target this summer. So, let’s see what general manager Chris Drury might have up his sleeve to get this deal done.

Gavrikov is a stable, physical presence, and would greatly bolster a back end that lacks jam and physicality. The 29-year-old also had 30 points last season and played all 82 games, averaging 23+ minutes TOI.

He’d also be the most solid partner Adam Fox has had. with the Rangers, no disrespect to Ryan Lindgren.

Lars Eller (C)​

Though the Rangers would likely prefer to add a third-line center at the level of Christian Dvorak, the limited cap space makes this hard to imagine. Especially with other teams needing immediate center depth even more so than the Rangers, driving prices up. So, enter the bargain option that is 2018 Stanley Cup champion Lars Eller.

At 36 years old, Eller is still an above-average skater, per NHL Edge. He has good size, is defensively responsible and committed to the forecheck, which would be a welcomed addition to what could be a very youthful third line no matter how you slice it. Add in that he’s played previously under Rangers coach Mike Sullivan, and there’s reason to believe Eller would be a solid bargain signing on a one-year deal.

This past season, he split time between Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals following an early season trade, finishing with 10 goals and 12 assists for 22 points in 80 games.

Nick Bjugstad (C)​

This center has been linked to the Rangers in the past and could also come at a discount after a down season with Utah. He’s younger (32 years old) and bigger (6 foot-6) than Eller, though not nearly as consistent.

After scoring eight goals and totaling 19 points in 66 games this past season, Bjugstad may not have big market for his services. So, signing a one-year “prove it” deal makes sense here for both sides.

There is value in Bjugstad’s all-around game. He scored 22 goals and 45 points for the Coyotes in 2023-24. He’s bounced around the League, but he’d be affordable and motivated to land a richer contract next summer, in theory, if the Rangers signed him.

Joe Veleno (C)​

Talia Sprague-Imagn Images

Here’s another center option for the Rangers. Veleno was bought out by the Seattle Kraken and is now an unrestricted free agent. He had only eight goals and 17 points last season, and has never lived up to being a first-round pick (No. 30 overall) by the Detroit Red Wings in 2018. Veleno has 38 goals and 81 points in 306 NHL games.

But the Rangers could use a youthful center with NHL experience, and Veleno is 25 years old. So, there’s room for growth here if the Rangers believe in the player. He’d be an affordable option that could grow into a longer-term bottom-six option.

At one time, there was little doubt about Veleno, who a decade ago was granted exceptional status in the QMJHL at just 15 years old. Perhaps Veleno can be the next Morgan Geekie, who wasn’t qualified by the Kraken at 24 years old in 2022-23 before he signed with the aging Boston Bruins. Since then, Geekie’s scored 17 and 33 goals in two seasons. That could be a reach for Veleno, but it’s worth taking a long look at him if you’re the Rangers.

Dmitry Orlov (D) / Brian Dumoulin (D)​

If the Rangers don’t sign Gavrikov, they need a Plan B option. That could simply be re-signing Miller and keeping Carson Soucy as their to play the left side on the top two pairings.

Or the Rangers could pivot to a veteran stop-gap option. There are two who should be pretty affordable, each 33 years old, and a Stanley Cup champion.

Brian Dumoulin was very good splitting last season between the Anaheim Ducks and New Jersey Devils, especially in the playoffs when the Devils defense was decimated by injuries. He’s not a star, but he is a stout defender that can still play on your second pair. He also played most of his career under Sullivan with the Penguins, including as a regular on two Cup- winning teams in 2016 and 2017.

Dmitry Orlov had 28 points and was plus-16, averaging 20 minutes TOI over 76 games with the Carolina Hurricanes last season. He was exposed in the Eastern Conference Final by the Florida Panthers, but can still play effectively on a second pairing

Neither is a sexy option. But each could be a decent short-term solution.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...ions-2025-nhl-free-agency-vladislav-gavrikov/

 

[New York Rangers]

Rangers land prized defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov in NHL free agency

Ryan Sun-Imagn ImagesRyan Sun-Imagn Images

After a largely quiet offseason to this point, the New York Rangers made a big splash when the NHL free-agent market opened Tuesday, signing defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov to a reported seven-year, $49 million contract ($7 million average annual value).

Though a significant investment, Gavrikov’s contract is a relative bargain on the open market. Gavrikov was clearly the best defenseman available after Aaron Ekblad (Florida Panthers) and Ivan Provorov (Columbus Blue Jackets) re-signed with their teams before July 1.

By comparison, Provorov, who’s also a left-shot, top-four defenseman, will get $8.5 million annually on his new deal with Columbus. That Gavrikov took $1.5 million less per year shows his desire to play for the Rangers

The rugged 29-year-old is a perfect fit for the Rangers, who were desperate to add a steady, reliable, physical left-shot d-man to play in their top four. It’s expected that Gavrikov, who averaged a career-high 23:05 TOI with the Los Angeles Kings last season, will team up with Adam Fox on the Rangers top pair. Fox’s longtime partner, Ryan Lindgren, was traded to the Colorado Avalanche last season and signed a four-year, $18 million contract with the Seattle Kraken on Tuesday.

Now, the Rangers must decide what to do with K’Andre Miller. The 25-year-old is a restricted free agent with arbitration rights, and the Rangers have been looking to trade him all offseason, but have yet to do so. They are reluctant to sign Miller to a long-term, big-money deal due to his inconsistent play, and now have very little salary cap space to keep him.

There are several reports Tuesday that the Rangers are closing in on a trade that would send Miller to the Carolina Hurricanes.

The Rangers entered Tuesday with approximately $13 million in cap space, before signing Gavrikov, and still needing to re-sign RFA forward Will Cuylle, who’s due a sizeable raise after scoring 20 goals and finishing tied for third in the NHL with 301 hits last season, and Miller or his possible replacement.

Related: New York Rangers 2025 NHL free agency tracker: Latest signings, analysis, trades, rumors

Rangers sign top free-agent target Vladislav Gavrikov, upgrade defense corps​

Ryan Sun-Imagn Images

This is the latest — and most impactful — move since December to revamp the Rangers defense corps. The Rangers traded top-four defensemen Jacob Trouba and Lindgren last season, along with rookie d-man Victor Mancini. They also didn’t extend a qualifying offer to Zac Jones, allowing the 24-year-old to become an unrestricted free agent Monday.

Since December, New York added Will Borgen, Urho Vaakanainen, Calvin de Haan and Carson Soucy in trades, and now signed Gavrikov. All but de Haan, a UFA, remain on the roster. Fox and Braden Schneider round out the returning group, and Matthew Robertson could find his way on to the roster as a 6th/7th defenseman next season.

Gavrikov gives the Rangers an absolute thumper on the blue line, capable of bone-rattling hits, as well as quick passes out of the zone and a shut-down capability. He had 30 points (five goals, 25 assists) last season, second most in his career behind the 33 points (five goals, 28 assists) he racked up with the Blue Jackets in 2021-22.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/new-york-rangers-news/sign-vladislav-gavrikov-nhl-free-agency/

 

[New York Rangers]

Get to know newest Rangers prospect Scott Morrow after trade with Hurricanes

James Guillory-Imagn ImagesJames Guillory-Imagn Images

Not to be lost in the K’Andre Miller trade Tuesday is that the New York Rangers acquired a top-end prospect from the Carolina Hurricanes to go along with the conditional first-round pick and second rounder in next year’s draft.

Scott Morrow is a skilled right-shot defenseman, who will turn 23 in November. The Rangers are getting him at a good time in his development, since he had a strong season in the American Hockey League in 2024-25 and also got his feet wet in the NHL.

There’s a chance Morrow could break camp with the Rangers, likely on the third pair if New York shifts Braden Schneider to the second pair on his off side. Even if Morrow — who’s still figuring the defensive side of the puck at the pro level — begins next season with AHL Hartford, hockey experts see a bright future for the former NCAA star from UMASS.

Related: Rangers transformation continues with K’Andre Miller trade to Hurricanes: 3 key takeaways

Breaking down new Rangers prospect Scott Morrow​

Scott Morrow (RHD): 6 foot-2, 192 pounds

2024-25 Season Stats:

Chicago Wolves (AHL) – 39 points (13 goals – 26 Assists) in 52 games
Carolina Hurricanes (NHL) – 6 points (1 goal – 5 assists) in 14 games

Collegiate Career: 3 years

UMass Amherst – 94 points (28 goals – 66 assists) in 109 games
(Second in program’s all-time defenseman scoring list)

Analysis from Elite Prospects NHL Draft Guide

“With constant hip pocket deception, changes of pace, and eyes that never reveal the intended play, he embarrasses defenders. After breaking down a defender, he continues the manipulation to drag over another defender, before rolling his wrists, turning the fake shot into a pass to an open teammate.”

Morrow is a right-handed offensive defensemen that uses his size, poise and slick hands to make plays all over the ice. Solid breakout abilities whether with a pass or weaving through the opposition. Very comfortable grabbing the puck at the blue line, stickhandling right into traffic to create space for his teammates or chaos going to the net to generate a scoring chance. Off the cycle or on the power play, he can be seen opening up for a booming shot from the point or on his offside half wall. That’s something the Rangers haven’t had consistently for years on the back end. His skating can use some work, especially under pressure in his own end.

While attending the prestigious prep school Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Minnesota, with alumni that includes the likes of Sidney Crosby, Jonathan Toews and so-on, Morrow put up as many as 48 points his senior year. The North Dakota commit was given two-options heading into his draft year, another year at Shattuck or to go to the USHL. Once the pandemic hit, he decided to stay at Shattuck with his three siblings and mother. With North Dakota still wanting him to play a year in the USHL, he eventually decommitted and took his talents to UMass Amherst as a top prospect.

Selected 40th overall by Carolina in 2021, Morrow became the second highest draft pick to come from UMass, behind Cale Makar. With a father, Steve Morrow, who was a 1987 draft pick of the Philadelphia Flyers and uncle, Scott Morrow, who had his own respectable pro career between the NHL and AHL before retiring in 2002, the younger Morrow knew what to expect as he moved through the hockey ranks.

Scott Wheeler of the Athletic listed Morrow as the Hurricanes top prospect last January.

“Morrow was one of the most productive freshmen in college hockey, led the Minutemen in scoring as a sophomore and then had a third straight 30-point season as a junior last year before turning pro. Most importantly, he played better defensively in huge minutes (25 per game) as a junior, taking important steps defensively. This year, as a rookie at the pro level, he has been one of the Wolves’ most productive players and has played 20 minutes per game in the AHL.”

After scoring his first professional goal in just his second game with the Chicago Wolves, an overtime winner, Morrow continued to make the transition to the pro level effortlessly, tallying just under a point per game this past season. He scored his first NHL goal against the Flyers on March 15 and added five assists in 14 NHL games. Injuries allowed him to appear in five postseason games with the Hurricanes, where he struggled and the Hurricanes were eliminated in the Eastern Conference Final by the Florida Panthers.

Scouts will look to his skating ability that needs work, justifiably so. With that size, if he’s able to gain more traction in his first few strides, this will turn him into a more confident defender off the puck in all three zones. That said, his confidence with the puck, especially with pressure on him, makes him someone that may be able to extend shifts and handle a heavy workload without expending much energy as his maturity grows, similar to Adam Fox.

Look no further than Edmonton Oilers defenseman Evan Bouchard. He consistently produces big offensive numbers, but can also be caught on the wrong side of the opposition often off the puck due to his positioning, lack of a strong first step in his stride and size to recover. Of course, Bouchard more than makes up for it with his bomb of a shot. Morrow may have a bit of Bouchard in his game.

Spin away from one guy, draw two more, and get the puck up into the zone.

Scott Morrow is certainly starting to get more comfortable. pic.twitter.com/aVAsnX7jtj

— Walt Ruff (@WaltRuff) March 15, 2025

When you look at the 2023-24 Rangers, perhaps the best value on the squad was Erik Gustafsson. He had confidence with the puck on the back end, a heavy shot from the point, and was someone capable of handling first power-play minutes when Fox was injured.

For this Rangers team, Gustafsson (who also wore number 56) is a guy Morrow should be striving to be in the near-term. Highly effective offensively without having the best skating ability, all while not being a total liability defensively. This should not only temper internal expectations on the young player, but give him a realistic floor to get to playing in a sheltered third pairing role.

The path and talent is there for him to become the Rangers quarterback on the second power-play unit this upcoming season. If not out of camp, shortly after. Patience is the key. The organization has gained a really promising prospect.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...lysis-prospect-scott-morrow-trade-hurricanes/

 

[New York Rangers]

Rangers GM addresses flurry of roster changes: ‘big piece of it was salary cap’

Brad Rempel-Imagn ImagesBrad Rempel-Imagn Images

One day after Chris Drury made a slew of big-time moves on the first day of NHL free agency, the New York Rangers reclusive general manager met with reporters for a rare Q&A session Wednesday.

Drury discussed a variety of topics, including why the Rangers moved on from core players Chris Kreider and K’Andre Miller this offseason. He explained that a roster shakeup was necessary after the Rangers bottomed out and missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season for the first time in four years.

But there was more to it with Kreider and Miller.

“A big piece of it was salary cap. There’s only so much to go around in trying to figure out the pieces that fit under the cap as we tried to rework the roster,” Drury explained.

So, the Rangers traded Kreider to the Anaheim Ducks in June for prospect Carey Terrance and a swap of mid-round draft picks. That saved them $6.5 million in cap space each of the next two seasons.

Miller was traded Tuesday to the Carolina Hurricanes for defenseman Scott Morrow and two premium picks in the loaded 2026 NHL Draft — a conditional first-rounder and a second-round selection. The Rangers couldn’t afford to re-sign the 25-year-old defenseman, who was a restricted free agent looking for a big payday, especially because they had their sites set on the top defenseman available in free agency, Vladislav Gavrikov.

#NYR have agreed to terms with defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov on a seven-year contract.

Welcome to New York, Vladislav! pic.twitter.com/kaawGy4Xnb

— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) July 1, 2025

When the Rangers landed Gavrikov with a seven-year, $49 million contract Tuesday, Miller was a goner. The Rangers had been shopping Miller for a while and weren’t sold on him as a long-term, big-money player in the first place, but the Gavrikov signing sealed his fate.

There was only so much money to go around, especially because a top priority was to re-sign RFA forward Will Cuylle, after his 20-goal breakout season. They accomplished that Tuesday, as well, agreeing to a two-year, $7.8 million contract that carries a $3.9 million salary cap hit.

“It’s certainly been a busy and exciting few weeks for the Rangers organization with lots of moving parts,” Drury said in a true understatement.

After all these moves, plus adding depth forwards Taylor Raddysh and Justin Dowling, the Rangers have approximately $778,000 in cap space, with a shadow roster of 23 players.

So, yeah, there were plenty of financial considerations for Drury and Co. to navigate as they tried to improve the roster this summer.

Related: Get to know newest Rangers prospect Scott Morrow after trade with Hurricanes

Takeaways from Chris Drury’s media session to discuss big Rangers moves​

Peter Carr/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Let’s dive into other key topics from Drury’s media session.

It wasn’t just about money for Rangers​

Though the salary cap played a major role in how the Rangers conducted their business this offseason, it wasn’t just about money for Drury. The Rangers GM has been rebuilding the defense corps since last December, when the first domino fell with the trade of captain Jacob Trouba to the Ducks.

Since then, Ryan Lindgren, Victor Mancini, Zac Jones, and now Miller were also jettisoned. Defensemen Will Borgen, Urho Vaakanainen, Calvin de Haan, Carson Soucy, Gavrikov, and Morrow were added to the mix. All but de Haan, an unrestricted free agent, are on the current roster.

Why all the changes to the defense corps?

“It starts in our D zone. D-zone coverage, defending, certainly defending in the high-danger areas, which we were, simply put, not good at last year,” Drury explained. “We have to be better in our own zone. We have to be better in front of ‘Shesty’ and ‘Quickie’ (goalies Igor Shesterkin and Jonathan Quick).”

It was clear to Drury that not only did the Rangers need to shuffle their deck of defensemen, but that signing Gavrikov was they key to their entire offseasson plan.

“The size, the reach, the competitiveness, the way he defends, the way he’s able to complement his partner, if that’s [Adam] Fox or any other of our right-shot D that we have. That’s what excited all of us [about Gavrikov],” he said.

Chris Drury bestows high praise on ‘Rangers legend’​

This was the first time Drury spoke with the media since the Kreider trade. It’s no secret that Drury had been trying to move the 34-year-old forward since last November, when a trade memo to the other League GMs with Kreider’s name on it was leaked publicly.

That certainly made for an uncomfortable situation, especially when Kreider battled numerous injuries, as well, and dipped to 30 points last season (though he scored 22 goals).

Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

But Drury had high praise Wednesday for Kreider, who exited Broadway third all-time in franchise history with 326 goals and tied for first with 116 power-play goals.

He called Kreider “a true Rangers legend,” and praised No. 20 and his agent for their cooperation to get a deal done with the Ducks.

Certainly, the Rangers GM handled this delicate situation better than his previous dealing with Kreider last season or the unpleasant drawn-out process with Trouba.

Have the Rangers started contract extension talks with Artemi Panarin?​

Drury is well known for playing things close to the vest and not sharing information publicly. Such was the case when asked if the Rangers started contract extension discussions yet with Artemi Panarin.

Simply, Drury wouldn’t say.

Panarin is eligible for an extension, since he’s entering the final season of his massive seven-year, $81.5 million contract. He can become an unrestricted free agent at the end of next season when he will be 34 years old.

Panarin led the Rangers with 37 goals and 89 points last season. And just two years ago he had 120 points (49 goals, 71 assists), second most in franchise history. In 430 games with the Rangers, Panarin has 186 goals, 364 assists and 55o points.

Of course, it was revealed late last season that Panarin and the Rangers each paid a sexual assault settlement to a former Rangers employee. Whether that factors into the equation here, well, Drury’s clearly not saying.

Is Mika Zibanejad a center or wing next season?​

A really important piece to the Rangers puzzle next season is where Mika Zibanejad fits in the forward group. Is the long-time center going to stay in the middle, possibly leading to Vincent Trocheck or Zibanejad himself as the 3C? Or will the 32-year-old play right wing on a line centered by J.T. Miller, which is where he resuscitated his spiraling 2024-25 season, when he finished with a disappointing 62 points (20 goals, 42 assists)?

“We’re in constant communication about a lot of different things within the organization, but I think one of the best parts about the forward group is there’s a lot of versatility,” Drury answered without providing a direct answer. “There’s a lot of players that can play center and wing … I’m trying to give [the coaches] as many options as possible.”

It should be Mike Sullivan’s decision anyway. And it appears that’s the case. Get back to usin September for more clarity.

Source: https://www.foreverblueshirts.com/n...is-drury-addresses-roster-changes-salary-cap/