The Rangers’ decision to commit to Will Borgen on a long-term contract is more than just another roster move—it signifies a shift in philosophy, a bet on stability, and a recognition of the value of dependable, hard-nosed defensemen in today’s NHL. At 27 years old, Borgen is entering the prime of his career, and the Rangers clearly see him as a cornerstone of their blue line for years to come. But what does this move truly mean for the franchise, the player, and the team’s aspirations in a highly competitive league?
Borgen’s journey to this point hasn’t been a straight line. Drafted by the Buffalo Sabres in 2015, he spent years developing in the NCAA with St. Cloud State before turning pro. His path to consistent NHL ice time wasn’t immediate, as he bounced between the AHL and NHL with the Sabres before finding a more permanent role with the Seattle Kraken after being selected in the 2021 expansion draft. It was in Seattle where Borgen truly began to carve out his identity as a reliable, physical defenseman capable of handling tough matchups. His game isn’t flashy—he won’t put up huge point totals or quarterback a power play—but his value lies in his ability to shut down opposing forwards, kill penalties, and bring a steady presence to the back end.
For the Rangers, signing Borgen to a multi-year deal signals a commitment to shoring up their defensive depth in a way that aligns with the modern game. The NHL has increasingly emphasized speed and skill, but the playoffs consistently prove that teams still need rugged, defensively sound blueliners to go deep. Borgen fits that mold perfectly. He’s a right-shot defenseman, a commodity that’s always in high demand, and his ability to play heavy minutes against top competition makes him an ideal partner for more offensively inclined defensemen like Adam Fox or K’Andre Miller. The Rangers have no shortage of offensive firepower up front, but their defensive corps needed a player like Borgen to balance the group.
Beyond the on-ice impact, this move speaks to the Rangers’ broader team-building strategy. In recent years, they’ve leaned heavily on star power, with players like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Fox driving the team’s success. But championship teams are built on more than just elite talent—they require depth, role players, and unsung heroes who can tilt games in subtle ways. Borgen represents that kind of player. By locking him up, the Rangers are investing in the kind of stability that can pay dividends over a grueling 82-game season and, more importantly, in the playoffs. His physicality and defensive reliability will be crucial in tight games where one shift, one blocked shot, or one well-timed hit can make the difference.
The contract itself is also a statement. In a salary-cap world, every dollar matters, and committing term and money to a player like Borgen shows that the Rangers value his skill set highly. It’s a bet on his continued development, too. At 27, he’s entering his peak years, and if he can refine his game further—perhaps adding a bit more offensive contribution or improving his puck-moving ability—this deal could look like a steal in a few seasons. Even if he maintains his current level of play, the Rangers are getting a known quantity who can log tough minutes without being a liability. In a league where defensive miscues often lead directly to goals against, that’s invaluable.
For Borgen, this contract is a career-defining moment. After years of fighting for a regular NHL role, he’s now secured his future with an Original Six franchise that has championship aspirations. The pressure will be on him to deliver, but his game is built for the bright lights of Madison Square Garden. Rangers fans appreciate players who leave it all on the ice, and Borgen’s no-nonsense style will endear him quickly. He’s the type of player who might not always get the headlines but will earn the respect of teammates, coaches, and opponents alike.
From a team dynamics perspective, Borgen’s presence could also free up other defensemen to focus on their strengths. A player like Fox, for example, can take more offensive risks knowing Borgen is there to cover defensively. Similarly, a younger player like Braden Schneider could benefit from playing alongside a steady veteran who knows how to handle the grind of an NHL season. The Rangers’ defense has been a mix of high-end talent and question marks in recent years, and Borgen helps solidify the group in a way that should make the entire unit more cohesive.
Looking around the league, the Rangers’ move to secure Borgen also reflects a larger trend. Teams are increasingly valuing defensive defensemen who can tilt the ice in their favor without needing to score. Players like Borgen may not drive possession like a Cale Makar or a Victor Hedman, but they play a critical role in tilting the ice in their team’s favor. The Florida Panthers’ success in the 2024 playoffs, for example, was built in part on the contributions of rugged defensemen like Radko Gudas, who provided a physical presence that wore down opponents. The Rangers are clearly hoping Borgen can bring a similar edge to their lineup.
Of course, no signing comes without risk. Long-term contracts for defensemen who rely heavily on physicality can sometimes age poorly if injuries or declining mobility become factors. But Borgen’s game isn’t built solely on brute force—he’s a smart player with good positioning, which should help him remain effective even as he gets older. The Rangers’ medical and performance staff will also play a key role in keeping him at his best, and if they can manage his minutes effectively, this deal should provide strong value throughout its duration.
Ultimately, the Rangers’ commitment to Will Borgen is about more than just one player. It’s about building a team that can win in multiple ways—a team that can outskill opponents on some nights and outwork them on others. It’s about recognizing that while stars win games, depth wins championships. And it’s about sending a message to the rest of the league that the Rangers are serious about contending, not just now but for years to come. Borgen may never be the face of the franchise, but his presence will be felt in every blocked shot, every cleared puck, and every shift where he helps keep the opponent’s top players in check. In a league where the margins between winning and losing are razor-thin, that’s something worth investing in.
