The New York Rangers have secured a pivotal piece of their future by signing forward Will Cuylle to a two-year, $7.8 million contract extension, as announced by the team on July 1, 2025. This move not only solidifies the Rangers’ forward depth but also reflects a strategic decision by General Manager Chris Drury to retain a promising young talent amidst a challenging salary cap landscape.(sportsnet.ca, en.wikipedia.org)
Cuylle, 23, has emerged as a cornerstone of the Rangers’ forward group. In the 2024–25 season, he set career highs with 20 goals, 25 assists, and 45 points in 82 games. His performance earned him the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award, a testament to his relentless work ethic and commitment to the team. Notably, Cuylle’s 301 hits led the team and set a new franchise record for hits in a single season, surpassing Ryan Callahan’s previous record of 285. His physical presence, combined with offensive production, has made him a fan favorite and a key component of the Rangers’ lineup.(nhl.com)
Drafted 60th overall by the Rangers in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, Cuylle has quickly developed into a reliable two-way forward. Over his 167 NHL games, all with New York, he has accumulated 33 goals and 33 assists. Since the beginning of the 2023–24 season, his 550 hits rank third among all NHL skaters, underscoring his physical style of play. This extension ensures that Cuylle will remain with the Rangers for at least two more seasons, providing stability to the forward group.(en.wikipedia.org, nhl.com)
The decision to sign Cuylle to a bridge deal comes as the Rangers navigate a tight salary cap situation. With limited financial flexibility, Drury opted for a two-year contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $3.9 million. This approach allows the team to retain Cuylle’s services while maintaining cap space for other roster moves. The contract also mitigates the risk of an offer sheet from other teams, a concern given Cuylle’s breakout season and potential appeal to rival clubs.(blueshirtbanter.com, nypost.com)
Cuylle’s extension is part of a broader strategy by the Rangers to balance short-term competitiveness with long-term financial planning. While the team has made significant moves in free agency, including the signing of defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov to a seven-year contract, the focus remains on developing young talent and maintaining roster flexibility. Cuylle’s continued development will be crucial to the Rangers’ success in the coming seasons.(nypost.com, nypost.com)
In summary, the Rangers’ commitment to Will Cuylle underscores their dedication to building a competitive and sustainable team. As Cuylle continues to evolve into a key player, his presence will be instrumental in the Rangers’ pursuit of future success.
The decision to extend Will Cuylle’s contract for two more years is a reflection of both the player’s rising trajectory and the Rangers’ forward-looking philosophy. Cuylle is not just a physical force on the ice but also a player who brings grit, determination, and versatility to the team’s lineup. His ability to balance a hard-nosed style of play with improving offensive skills makes him an invaluable asset in today’s NHL, where teams seek players who can contribute in all three zones.
Throughout the 2024-25 season, Cuylle’s role expanded beyond what many expected from a third-round draft pick. Initially seen as a depth forward capable of providing energy and physicality, he has transformed into a dependable winger who can be counted on in various situations — be it penalty killing, forechecking, or driving play in the offensive zone. His 20 goals last season demonstrated a scoring touch that complements his aggressive style, showing that his development is on an upward curve.
What makes Cuylle’s extension particularly meaningful for the Rangers is his fit within the team’s culture. New York has long valued players who show hustle and a willingness to battle in every shift, and Cuylle embodies those traits. His relentless work ethic earned him the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award, an honor voted on by fans that celebrates players who go above and beyond in their commitment. Such recognition speaks volumes about his connection with the Rangers’ fan base and his intangible contributions to the team’s identity.
Financially, the contract extension represents a smart move by the Rangers’ front office. With an average annual value of $3.9 million, the deal is structured to be manageable under the NHL’s salary cap while rewarding Cuylle’s breakout season. It provides Cuylle with stability and a platform to continue his growth without the immediate pressure of a long-term commitment. For the Rangers, it’s a way to keep a promising young player in the fold as they evaluate their roster and cap situation heading into the next few seasons.
General Manager Chris Drury has emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between proven veterans and emerging talent. While the Rangers have invested heavily in established stars like Artemi Panarin and Adam Fox, nurturing players like Cuylle is essential for sustained success. The two-year extension sends a clear message that the organization is confident in Cuylle’s potential and sees him as a key component of their future plans.
Cuylle’s style of play aligns well with the modern NHL, which values physicality paired with skill. His 301 hits last season not only set a franchise record but also illustrate his ability to wear down opponents and create space for his teammates. Moreover, his willingness to engage physically without sacrificing offensive contributions makes him a dual threat on the ice. This blend of attributes positions Cuylle as a prototype for the kind of versatile forward teams covet in a competitive league.
Looking ahead, the next two seasons will be critical for Cuylle’s continued development. With the contract extension in place, he has the opportunity to refine his game, especially in areas such as puck handling, playmaking, and defensive responsibility. The Rangers’ coaching staff, led by Head Coach Peter Laviolette, is expected to work closely with Cuylle to maximize his impact. Laviolette’s system, which emphasizes a strong two-way game and disciplined positioning, could be the perfect environment for Cuylle to elevate his overall play.
The Rangers themselves are entering a phase where integrating young talent will be key to maintaining their status as a Stanley Cup contender. The team has seen fluctuations in recent playoff runs, and adding depth scoring and physical presence is a priority. Cuylle’s contract extension fits into this broader team-building strategy, ensuring that the Rangers have a robust forward group capable of handling the rigors of a deep playoff push.
Cuylle’s rise from a third-round pick to a vital member of the Rangers underscores the importance of smart drafting and player development. His journey serves as an inspiration to other young players within the organization’s system, demonstrating that hard work and perseverance can lead to meaningful NHL roles. For Rangers fans, Cuylle represents a new generation of players who blend toughness with skill and embody the blue-collar ethos the franchise cherishes.
Off the ice, Cuylle’s professionalism and dedication have also been noted by teammates and coaches alike. His approach to training, nutrition, and game preparation reflects a mature attitude unusual for a player his age. This level of commitment bodes well for his future, as it indicates a readiness to shoulder increased responsibility and leadership within the locker room.
From a broader NHL perspective, Cuylle’s contract extension may also have ripple effects in terms of roster construction and salary cap management. The Rangers’ ability to lock in a player of his caliber on a manageable deal could serve as a model for other teams seeking to balance talent retention with financial constraints. With the league’s salary cap remaining relatively flat, creative and prudent contract negotiations like this one are increasingly vital.
In the end, the agreement between Will Cuylle and the New York Rangers is a win-win scenario. Cuylle gains security and the chance to continue proving himself at the highest level, while the Rangers retain a dynamic player who enhances their lineup both physically and offensively. This extension symbolizes the mutual commitment between player and team, and it lays the foundation for what could be several productive seasons together.
As the Rangers prepare for the upcoming 2025-26 season, fans will be watching closely to see how Cuylle builds on his impressive performances. If he continues on his current trajectory, there is little doubt that he will be a key factor in New York’s quest for another Stanley Cup championship. His contract extension is not just a financial transaction; it’s a statement of belief in a player whose heart and hustle define the spirit of Rangers hockey.
The two-year deal gives Cuylle the runway to develop into a more complete player, potentially setting himself up for a significant long-term contract in the near future. For the Rangers, it ensures that a young forward with championship potential remains a cornerstone of the team’s evolving core. This strategic move reflects the organization’s commitment to building a sustainable, competitive team that blends experienced stars with hungry, emerging talents.
Ultimately, Will Cuylle’s contract extension marks an important chapter in both his career and the New York Rangers’ ongoing story. It’s a testament to what can be achieved through perseverance, hard work, and the right organizational support. As the NHL landscape continues to evolve, players like Cuylle will be essential in defining the future of their franchises, and the Rangers have taken a decisive step toward securing that future with this latest deal.
