Rangers Focus on Lindgren & Schneider Amid Trouba Crisis – Hockey Writers – Rangers Management

Five days ago, the New York Rangers signed protected free agent Braden Schneider to a two-year contract, boasting an average annual salary of $2.2 million. This transaction leaves the Rangers with approximately $5 million in remaining cap space. With one free agent left to sign, Ryan Lindgren, they appear to be wrapping up their 2024 free agency deals. According to Vince Mercogliano, the delay in Lindgren's contract negotiations stems from the timing, not the dollar amount, which is expected to be around $3.6 million (from 'What Braden Schneider's new contract means to the Rangers' D corps, the salary cap,' lohud, 7/15/24). The deal would leave the Rangers with more than $1 million in cap space, which could accumulate throughout the season and provide flexibility for important moves at the trade deadline next March.

Despite these strategic moves, there is lingering frustration among fans. In fact, the Rangers are running backs from the same team three years in a row. If they had been able to trade Jacob Trouba and clear his $8 million cap hit, they would have pursued a free agent or bolstered their depth. Now, they find themselves hoping that the addition of Reilly Smith will address their lingering issues.

Schneider's Bridge Deal and Lindgren's negotiations

Schneider's contract is a bridge deal that is fair to both parties; if anything, the Rangers may have gained a slight edge, as they would have commanded a higher salary. He's poised to make the top four this season, especially considering the Rangers' $8 million captain is likely to play three minutes. Schneider has been a standout defensively and has started to show some offensive potential, but he needs to improve his ability to get out of the zone. Being paired with K'Andre Miller, the Rangers' second-leading defenseman in terms of outfield, will help him in this area. Schneider has the potential to be a mainstay on the Rangers blue line for years to come, perhaps even being paired with EJ Emery in the future.

If Chris Drury can sign Lindgren to a deal under $4 million, it should be considered a win. Comparable players, like Adam Pelech, command much higher salaries. While there are concerns that Lindgren's physical style of play could lead to an earlier decline than is typical for NHL players, the ability to sign him below market value makes the contract more valuable as the cap increases. Lindgren is the heart and soul of the Rangers and has amazing chemistry with Adam Fox. Securing him at a reasonable price would be a key step in strengthening the team's defensive core for the foreseeable future.

The Rangers have the potential to be a strong defensive force for years to come. With Zac Jones entering this season, Emery on the way in a few years, and the young Schneider, Fox, and Miller reaching the top, the Rangers will have a formidable front four. This defensive stability will allow them to focus on strengthening their forward team, which is where they will really need help.

The Trouba Conundrum

The Rangers captain has become a problem this offseason, not only because of his play but also because of his performance on the ice. Forget about his controversial hits; he is a net negative on ice. He often misses assignments, leaves players open in front of the net, and hits big shots that often miss their mark. One game they missed ended the Rangers' season. If his salary were lower, these issues might be addressed differently, but at his dollar value, he needs to get better or accept a trade.

Related: Rangers' Potential 2024-25 Line Combinations

This offseason, Victor Arvidsson signed a two-year contract with an AAV of $4 million, Blake Lizotte signed a two-year deal worth $1.875 million per year, and the list of affordable and valuable players goes on. Trouba has put the Rangers in a position where they can't compete with any high-priced free agents. They should have traded valuable draft picks, already lacking, for Smith, who is a solid middle-six forward but not at the level of Jake Guentzel or Jonathan Marchessault.

As a captain, Trouba should prioritize the success of the team, but instead, he seems to prioritize his own interests. This season may be his last chance to prove himself as a Ranger. Don't be surprised if he hears boos from the garden faithful on opening night. The pressure is on him to turn his game around and lead by example, or calls for him to leave will grow louder.

Strategic Contract Win Fuels Rangers' Cup Path

Schneider and Lindgren's contracts are important for the Rangers this season. Schneider's bridge deal, which is considered a bit of a win for the club, puts him in a big role in the top four, especially with a possible pairing with Miller. If Drury can secure Lindgren for less than $4 million, it will not only be a financial win but also strengthen the team's stability given Lindgren's chemistry with Fox. These contracts, which balance fair value and strategic vision, will be crucial in shaping Rangers' defensive strength this season. With these key pieces in place, the Rangers can turn their focus to strengthening their forward line, ensuring a balanced and competitive team next season.