Several players, such Ryan Lindgren, Braden Schneider, and Kaapo Kakko, will be available to the New York Rangers as free agents this summer. It appeared doubtful that the Blueshirts could complete all of their summer objectives, especially considering the pressing requirement to acquire a right winger for the top line. But after a huge league upgrade, it’s not completely out of the question anymore.
Major increase to salary cap limit announced by NHL
On Saturday afternoon, the National Hockey League (NHL) announced that the salary cap for the 2024–25 season will be increased to $88 million. Although this $4.5 million boost doesn’t appear to be much, it helps the Rangers out considering their present financial predicament.
With this increase in the salary cap, how will the Rangers spend it?
With this information available before the update, the Blueshirts might have easily extended Schneider and Kakko. The contract of Lindgren, who is eligible for a raise this summer, would have been the main point of contention. The NHL just announced a salary rise for players, and he is expected to seek an extension worth approximately $4.5 million in the area, which is an increase from his previous contract’s average yearly value of $3 million.
Ryan Lindgren (55), a defenseman for the New York Rangers, waits for the face-off in the third period of their game against the Buffalo Sabres.
Buffalo, New York, USA; October 12, 2023; In the third period of the game against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center, New York Rangers defenseman Ryan Lindgren (55), who is waiting for the face-off, waits. Authorized by USA Today Sports, Timothy T. Ludwig
It would be wise for the Rangers to extend Lindgren’s contract for as long as possible, taking advantage of this salary cap rise. Although the New York defensive unit appears ripe for overhaul, the issues that plagued the team at the end of the season did not involve Lindgren’s starting tandem with superstar Adam Fox.
Three free agents the Rangers are eyeing might help shore up their right wing depth chart
Related Reading: Three free agents the Rangers might sign to shore up their starting right wing
This salary cap rise might be the deciding factor in extending Lindgren’s Ranger contract, since he deserves to stay with the team for at least the rest of the current Cup timeframe. With their remaining budget and whatever funds cleared up through trades or buyouts, the Blueshirts should be able to finish off the balance of their offseason responsibilities.
