Breaking Down the New York Rangers’ 2025 UFA Class

The New York Rangers have a total of nine players in the organization that are pending unrestricted free agents. While it’s unlikely any of them are back and making an impact with the Rangers next season, let’s take a deeper look at who, if any of them, should be considered for a contract extension. Additionally, let's take some guesses on where these players might sign next. 

Calvin de Haan

We’ll start with the obvious: I highly doubt that Calvin de Haan will be back with the Rangers next season.

While de Haan did everything that was asked of him in the three games he suited up for the Rangers, they never gave him another chance, which led to one of the more dramatic moments of the season. Ironically, the Rangers probably could use a player like him as an extra defenseman (or instead of Carson Soucy) but, alas, it’s pretty safe to assume that relationship is fully destroyed. 

Prior to the trade that brought him to New York, de Haan played in 44 games with the Colorado Avalanche and had seven assists. Seeing as he spent the second half of the season in the press box, it might be a challenge for him to find his next job. But, if all else fails, I’m sure there are teams that would be willing to sign him to a PTO if nothing else. 

Prediction: He goes back to Colorado

The Avalanche will likely lose Ryan Lindgren, Erik Johnson, Tucker Poolman, and a few more AHL depth defenseman to free agency. While de Haan didn’t necessarily put up career numbers in his initial stint there, he performed well enough to justify a second tour of duty. Especially when you consider that Colorado wouldn’t have to pay him a ton, and de Haan’s not in a position to demand a high asking price. 

Chad Ruhwedel

Prior to the 2024 postseason, the Rangers went out and spent a 4th round draft pick on another veteran defenseman in Chad Ruhwedel. While he only suited up for five games down the stretch, the Rangers ended up resigning him after initially letting him walk to free agency last summer. A solid depth defenseman that can play in the AHL and be a call-up option, like Connor Mackey and Ben Harpur, Ruhwedel got another five games with the Rangers early this season. In theory, he’s a solid 7th defenseman. But after two seasons of mainly being in Hartford, it makes sense that Ruhwedel will look for a potential gig elsewhere. 

Prediction: Minnesota Wild 

The Wild have Jon Merrill as a solid 6th/7th defenseman, but he is set to be a UFA this summer. Declan Chisholm (a left handed shot) plays a similar role and will be an RFA. If the Wild want someone with a little more experience to serve as a 7th defenseman, Chad Ruhwedel could be right up their alley. A right handed shot that can play both sides, having him and Chisholm as options in that role would make for a solid core of defense for a team looking to remain competitive.