In a bold move to solidify their defensive corps for years to come, the New York Rangers announced Saturday they have signed veteran blueliner Will Borgen to a five-year contract extension. The deal, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $4.1 million, represents a significant investment in the 28-year-old who was acquired via trade just last month.
Borgen came over from the Seattle Kraken on December 18th in the deal that sent former 2nd overall draft pick Kaapo Kakko the other way. In his brief stint with the Rangers so far, Borgen has made an immediate impact, already ranking third on the team in blocked shots with 29. He also sits sixth in total time-on-ice, logging an impressive 316 minutes in the 11 games he’s suited up for since the trade.
Borgen Earns High Praise from Coach Laviolette
Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette had effusive praise for Borgen when discussing the extension. “He’s been outstanding since he’s been here,” Laviolette remarked earlier this week. “For me, he’s a big reason why things have quieted down a little bit. He skates well, he’s physical, he plays with an edge, and he doesn’t back down from anybody.”
That tenacious, hard-nosed style of play is exactly what the Rangers have needed on the back end. Borgen has mostly been paired with K’Andre Miller on New York’s second defensive unit, forming a formidable shutdown tandem. The Rangers’ overall team defense has noticeably improved since Borgen’s arrival and the departure of former captain Jacob Trouba, who was shipped out to Anaheim earlier this season.
Locking Up a Key Piece at a Critical Time
With Borgen set to hit unrestricted free agency on July 1st, getting him signed to an extension now was crucial for GM Brian Goodwin and the Rangers’ front office. At a $4.1 million cap hit, Borgen’s deal slots in very reasonably for a physical, top-4 defenseman just entering his prime years.
The 5-year term also gives New York some cost certainty and keeps a key piece of their revamped blue line in the fold through the 2029-30 season. For a Rangers squad with championship aspirations, having that kind of stability on defense is extremely valuable.
Draft Pedigree Finally Paying Off
Originally drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in the 4th round (92nd overall) back in 2015, it’s been a long road to this point for the Minnesota native. Borgen didn’t become a full-time NHLer until the 2021-22 season with the Kraken at age 25.
But the potential that made him a relatively high pick has always been evident. At 6’3″ and 205 lbs, Borgen has the prototypical size and strength that teams covet. Combine that with his above-average mobility and high compete level, and you have all the ingredients of a quality NHL rearguard.
A Stabilizing Presence Moving Forward
The next phase for the Rangers will be integrating Borgen further into their system and leaning on him as a stabilizing presence in their top-4. If the early returns are any indication, he should be more than up to the task, both now and for the next five years.
This signing represents the latest savvy move by the Rangers’ brass as they look to position themselves as perennial Stanley Cup contenders. With Borgen locked up long-term and a forward group led by Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Adam Fox still in their primes, the championship window looks wide open on Broadway.
