Rangers Commit to Defenseman Will Borgen in $4.1 Million Annual Extension

Rangers Commit to Defenseman Will Borgen in $4.1 Million Annual Extension

The New York Rangers have made a big move to secure their defense for the future, signing veteran defenseman Will Borgen to a five-year contract extension. The deal, announced Saturday, is worth an average of $4.1 million per year, as reported by ESPN’s Kevin Weekes. For the Rangers, this signing represents not just a commitment to a key player, but also a clear focus on strengthening their blue line as they aim to make a serious playoff push.

The Trade That Brought Borgen to New York

Will Borgen, now 28, joined the Rangers on December 18 after being traded by the Seattle Kraken. In exchange, the Rangers sent Kaapo Kakko, a former No. 2 overall draft pick, to Seattle. While trading a young forward with Kakko’s potential wasn’t easy, the Rangers had a clear need on defense, and Borgen has proven to be a great fit since his arrival.

Although Borgen has only tallied three points since the trade, his contributions go far beyond the scoresheet. He’s brought physicality, reliability, and a strong defensive presence to a team that had been struggling to lock down their opponents. Borgen ranks third on the Rangers in blocked shots (29) and has logged 316 minutes of ice time, showing how much trust the coaching staff has placed in him.

Coach Laviolette: “He’s Been Outstanding”

Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette has been nothing but impressed with Borgen’s play. “He’s been outstanding since he’s been here,” Laviolette said 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.”

It’s that toughness and grit that have made Borgen stand out. The Rangers were in need of a steady presence on defense, and Borgen has stepped up to the challenge. His ability to win battles in front of the net, block key shots, and keep opposing forwards in check has been invaluable for the team.

A Reliable Defensive Pairing

Since joining the Rangers, Borgen has found a strong partner in veteran defenseman K’Andre Miller. Together, they’ve formed the team’s second defensive pairing, providing balance and stability. Miller’s smooth skating and offensive instincts pair well with Borgen’s more physical, stay-at-home style, making them a solid duo on the ice.

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This partnership has been especially important following the midseason trade of Jacob Trouba, the Rangers’ former captain, to the Anaheim Ducks. Losing a leader like Trouba could have left a huge hole in the defense, but Borgen has stepped up to help fill that void.

Why the Rangers Made the Deal

The Rangers didn’t wait until the offseason to make sure Borgen stayed in New York. He was set to become a free agent on July 1, but the team saw enough in his first month with them to lock him down long-term. By signing him now, the Rangers avoid the risk of losing him to another team and ensure stability on their blue line.

At $4.1 million per year, the contract is a reasonable deal for both sides. For the Rangers, it’s an affordable price for a player who has proven to be reliable and effective. For Borgen, it’s a chance to settle into a team where he’s clearly valued and play an important role during the prime years of his career.

From Fourth-Round Pick to Key Player

Borgen’s NHL journey hasn’t been easy. He was drafted in the fourth round (92nd overall) by the Buffalo Sabres in 2015, a spot where many players never even make it to the league. But Borgen worked hard, developing his game and earning a reputation as a tough, dependable defender.

In 2021, the Seattle Kraken selected him in the NHL Expansion Draft, giving him a fresh start with a new team. He became a solid part of their defensive lineup but was traded to the Rangers when Seattle saw an opportunity to add offensive firepower by acquiring Kakko.

Now, in New York, Borgen has found a place where his skills are both needed and appreciated. The five-year deal gives him the security he’s earned through years of hard work and steady improvement.

Source: New York Rangers sign Will Borgen to five-year extension

Looking Ahead

With Borgen locked in for the next five years, the Rangers are sending a clear message: they’re serious about building a defense that can compete at the highest level. In a competitive Eastern Conference, having a strong, reliable blue line is essential, and Borgen’s physical style of play will be a key part of their strategy moving forward.

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As the playoffs approach, the Rangers are counting on Borgen to help them shut down some of the league’s top teams. His ability to block shots, play tough in the corners, and handle big minutes will make him an essential piece of the puzzle.

Rangers Commit to Defenseman Will Borgen in $4.1 Million Annual Extension

Why This Move Matters

For the Rangers, this isn’t just about the present season—it’s about the future. They’ve seen enough in Borgen’s play to believe he can be a cornerstone of their defense for years to come. His combination of toughness, reliability, and leadership qualities makes him the kind of player every team needs.

For Borgen, this contract is a huge moment in his career. At 28, he’s entering the prime of his playing days, and the Rangers are giving him the opportunity to make a big impact on a team with championship aspirations. It’s also a chance to solidify his legacy as a player who rose from being a fourth-round pick to becoming a vital part of one of the NHL’s most iconic franchises.

A Bright Future for Borgen and the Rangers

Will Borgen’s five-year contract extension is a win-win for both him and the New York Rangers. For the team, it means stability on defense and a player who brings everything they’ve been missing on the blue line. For Borgen, it’s the chance to play a crucial role on a team with its sights set on a Stanley Cup.

As the Rangers continue to push toward the playoffs, Borgen will be one of the players they rely on most. His physicality, defensive smarts, and work ethic have already made him a fan favorite, and there’s no doubt he’ll continue to play an important role in the team’s success.

The next five years are bound to be exciting for both Will Borgen and the Rangers. If his first few weeks with the team are any indication, this partnership is going to be a great one.
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