Lindgren ‘excited to get back at it,’ make another deep run with Rangers
Lindgren ‘excited to get back at it,’ make another deep run with Rangers
The defenseman, previously a restricted free agent (RFA), has signed a 1-year contract to stay with New York.
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EDINA, Minn. — Ryan Lindgren is ready to make another deep playoff run with the New York Rangers.
The 26-year-old defenseman, previously a restricted free agent, inked a one-year contract with the Rangers on Tuesday, worth $4.5 million. He had submitted for salary arbitration earlier on July 5.
“I’m genuinely thrilled to have it completed prior to (arbitration),” said Lindgren on Wednesday at Da Beauty League, a 4-on-4 summer league that showcases college and NHL players connected to Minnesota. “New York is a city I adore, so I’m eagerly looking forward to returning. It’s an excellent city with an amazing team, so I’m very enthusiastic about the upcoming year.”
Last season, Lindgren scored 17 points, made up of three goals and 14 assists, and blocked 103 shots over 76 games. In 16 Stanley Cup Playoff games, he provided three assists which contributed to New York making it to the Eastern Conference Final. However, they were defeated by the Florida Panthers in six games.
This offseason, the Rangers added forward Reilly Smith in a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins on July 1 for a conditional fifth-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft and a second-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, and also signed depth forward Sam Carrick to a three-year contract that same day.
Despite some key departures, including forwards Alex Wennberg and Barclay Goodrow (San Jose Sharks), Jack Roslovic (Carolina Hurricanes) and defenseman Erik Gustafsson (Detroit Red Wings), Lindgren believes the future to be bright in New York, especially after finding chemistry with Adam Fox on the top defense pair last season.
“We were so close,” remarked Lindgren. “Last year, we fell just short in the Eastern Conference Final, losing to an outstanding Florida team. Yet, we matched them stride for stride. It made us realize the immense effort it takes to reach that stage. Despite having a great regular season, it holds little significance when you step into the playoffs.”
“But we have a truly excellent team. We’ve incorporated some highly skilled players and I’m aware that our guys were eager during the offseason. So, we’re genuinely excited to return to the game.”
Lindgren was picked in the second round of the 2016 NHL Draft by the Boston Bruins, at No. 49. He has played all of his 333 regular-season games with the Rangers, during which he scored 80 points (10 goals, 70 assists). In his 43 playoff games, he has racked up 11 points (three goals, eight assists).
Lindgren, who might become a free agent at the end of this season, wants to keep New York as his home.
“He said, ‘I simply strive not to dwell on it as much as possible. Just step out, play and enjoy. If the team prospers, you will too. That’s really all that counts.”
I desire to be in New York. For the past six years, that’s all I’ve been familiar with. I adore being there and wish to stay as long as possible.