The New York Rangers have signed defenseman Will Borgen to a five-year extension with an average annual value of $4.1 million against the cap. Borgen arrived in New York after his trade from the Seattle Kraken in the deal that sent Kaapo Kakko to the Pacific Northwest, and the Rangers have extended his stay. He's been an excellent partner for K'Andre Miller, and the Rangers will look to have this pairing together in the coming years.
Borgen's 17 games with the Rangers have seen him net one goal and two assists, but he offers more than production. His strong defensive game, combined with the physical aspect he brings, has headlined a change in fortune for the Ranger's defense. He's not going to win the Norris as that defender who tallies 100 points and breaks the stratosphere like Adam Fox does, but he will do his work quietly, not let his teammates down, and can be part of a successful project in New York.
Will Borgen signs a five-year extension with #NYR carrying a $4.1M AAV.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) January 25, 2025
That removes a potential deadline rental from the trade market.
Initially drafted in the fourth round of the 2015 NHL entry draft by the Buffalo Sabres, Borgen was selected in the expansion draft by the Seattle Kraken. After four years in the Emerald City, the Rangers acquired him to be the difference maker on the blueline defensively. He's got the profile of defender that the Rangers want, with his 6'3. 205 lbs frame and long reach.
New York needs to continue undergoing cosmetic surgery on the blueline, with players like Ryan Lindgren not producing at the rate that they were once. Borgen can be essential to turning around the organization's fortunes. It'll be difficult for the Rangers if they continue to struggle defensively, so they hope that Borgen can help them stem the tide of defensive worries and become a solidified contender once more. He's here to stay for the time being.