In order to avoid salary arbitration, the New York Rangers re-signed defender Ryan Lindgren to a $4.5 million, one-year contract. The 26-year-old Lindgren participated in 76 games last season, scoring 17 points and blocking 103 shots. He also contributed significantly to the Rangers’ march to the Eastern Conference Final.
Rangers Sign Ryan Lindgren to End Offseason
Ryan Lindgren was signed by the New York Rangers to a one-year, $4.5 million contract to cap off their offseason activities.
Shortly before Lindgren’s arbitration hearing, the deal was completed, as originally reported by Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet.
In addition to keeping Lindgren in the fold for another season, this deal also helps the Rangers control their payroll cap going forward.
The Rangers perform better because of Ryan Lindgren’s tenacity.
The Rangers value the 26-year-old defenseman Ryan Lindgren, who frequently lines up with Adam Fox.
Lindgren has played 333 games in his six seasons with the Rangers, with three goals and 17 points this past season. He has a great deal of respect because of his hard playing style and willingness to suffer an injury for the club.
He frequently makes a speedy recovery to the game despite injuries, demonstrating his tenacity. “He’s a warrior,” as coach Peter Laviolette put it.
Cap Management and Upcoming Rangers Decisions
General Manager Chris Drury of the Rangers made a wise decision in signing a one-year contract.
The Rangers must exercise caution while using their wage cap because standout goalkeeper Igor Shesterkin will become a free agency in the summer and important players like K’Andre Miller and Alexis Lafrenière will require new contracts.
They now have $623,476 in cap space with Lindgren’s agreement; before the trade deadline, they may raise it to $2.8 million.
Due to his contract, Lindgren will be a free agent in the summer of 2020, allowing the Rangers time to choose whether to sign him to a long-term deal.
The choice will probably depend on Lindgren’s performance this season and the durability of his physical play style.
Rangers Strengthen Defense and Make Cap Flexibility Plans
With Lindgren joining Adam Fox, Zac Jones, K’Andre Miller, Jacob Trouba, and Chad Ruhwedel on defense, the Rangers’ roster is largely complete. The Rangers now have a formidable defense heading into the new year.
Possible adjustments to the team’s cap space plan include Adam Edstrom being sent to the AHL to free up further space. They would then have seven defensemen and thirteen forwards, freeing up roughly $1.47 million.
With proper management, the Rangers might have approximately $6.7 million available before the trade deadline, which would enable them to make possible moves or add players.
Lindgren’s Contract’s Prospects Rely on Performance
Even if Lindgren’s contract is just for a year, it leaves room for more talks. In January, the Rangers may discuss a long-term contract, contingent on Lindgren’s performance and their salary cap position.
