The New York Rangers are gradually taking care of their internal matters as we approach July 1. On Saturday, Braden Schneider committed to a two-year contract worth $2.2 million AAV, while Matthew Robertson, who was drafted the year before Schneider, agreed to a two-way contract for the NHL’s minimum salary of $775,000 each year. If the Rangers need a right-shot defenseman, Chad Ruhwedel returned on a two-way contract and has the advantage going into the summer.
Thus, there has been movement in deciding on a roster for training camp, which starts in around two months. It’s time for eight reflections on the events of the past few weeks, what lies ahead this summer, and how the pieces might fit together when the 2024–25 season gets underway in Pittsburgh on October 9.
The Chronicles of Troubadour
Jacob Trouba is one Ranger who will most likely be skating in Greenburgh when the Rangers get together for camp. Prior to July 1, the captain was the subject of rumors, but league insiders claim that there was never any serious discussion about a Trouba trade between the Red Wings and Rangers.
In a similar vein, it doesn’t appear that Trouba will be acquired or traded this summer. A league source claims that Trouba and Chris Drury have spoken at least once in the last few weeks. While there was undoubtedly some settling of scores regarding the team’s initial public rumors, Trouba is a seasoned player who knows how to handle situations for the benefit of the team without allowing his personal emotions get in the way; I suppose that’s part of the reason they named you captain in the first place.
Therefore, save those No. 8 sweaters even though camp is still more than two months away.
Part Two of The Trouba Chronicles
In light of this, I would estimate that the likelihood of a Trouba transaction increases from “nearly zero” to “nearly certain” by next summer.The squad and the captain are aware of what lies ahead following the 2024–25 season: Igor Shesterkin, Alexis Lafrenière, and K’Andre Miller will require new contracts, along with a backup goalie and possibly another top–nine forward.
Trouba will have one year left on his contract, making him a more appealing option for potential trade partners. His wife, Dr. Kelly Trouba, will have completed her residency at Lenox Hill Hospital in Manhattan by that time. Next summer looks more favorable for both the Rangers and Trouba, who will likely be motivated to improve after a disappointing playoff performance, hindered by a broken ankle late last regular season.
Consequently, Trouba is expected to be highly determined to perform better for a team that remains competitive. Regardless of how next season concludes, it is anticipated that Trouba will be more open to leaving the Rangers. This is speculative, but it seems likely given the circumstances.
With Schneider’s contract now secured, the Rangers are focusing on negotiating a deal with Ryan Lindgren. According to a league source, discussions between Lindgren’s representatives and the Rangers have been ongoing. Lindgren’s arbitration hearing is set for August 2, making it likely that an agreement will be reached by then, probably resulting in a one-year deal around his $3.6 million qualifying offer.
Extending beyond one year would mean buying into Lindgren’s unrestricted free agency (UFA) years, which would increase the cost. Given the numerous contracts the Rangers need to handle next summer, a multiyear deal for Lindgren seems less feasible. However, if Drury is willing to commit long-term, there might be a way to work it out. For now, a one-year contract appears to be the most likely outcome, but this could change.
It’s uncertain if the Rangers ever seriously considered acquiring another top-four left defenseman around July 1. A league source mentioned they were interested in Brenden Dillon, who signed with the Devils for three years at $4 million annually. Had Drury pursued Dillon more aggressively, Lindgren might not still be with the team.
If Lindgren signs for just one year, his contract situation will be added to Drury’s extensive to-do list for the summer of 2025, indicating a busy period ahead.
Regarding contract extensions, discussions for Shesterkin, Miller, and Lafrenière have been relatively quiet. While this could change in the coming months, the need to free up cap space might delay significant progress on these talks until early 2025.
