Rangers Sign Braden Schneider to One-Year, $5.5M Contract
The Rangers avoid arbitration with Braden Schneider, as the two sides agree to a one-year bridge deal.
The New York Rangers have crossed another item off their summer to-do list, as they've agreed to terms with RFA Braden Schneider a one-year contract extension. Schneider's new AAV comes in at $5.5 million and will leave him still a restricted free agent when the contract expires.
The Rangers and Braden Schneider have settled on a one-year, $5.5M deal, per @FriedgeHNIC 🗽 pic.twitter.com/ubiLiV9cdT
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) July 13, 2026
All things considered, this deal makes sense given Schneider's current standing with the team. As mentioned in a recent story, it still feels like no one—including and in particular the Rangers—really knows what to make of him, and this deal essentially reflects that. The Rangers aren't ready for a long-term commitment, and they extend a window in which he could be traded at any point between now and this time next season.
In 82 games played last season, Schneider netted two goals and added 16 assists for a total of 18 points.
Braden Schneider, signed 1x$5.5M by NYR, is a right-handed defenceman with solid physical tools including size and decent mobility. Played top four minutes last season but they did not go very well. pic.twitter.com/TfDvKcmKCO
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) July 13, 2026
In the event he isn't moved, Schneider can be a fine third pair defenseman alongside whoever of Alberts Smits, Matthew Robertson, or Drew Fortescue earn that job by the end of preseason. Despite not having a great season last year, Schneider is still young and, in the right role, can be an effective player on this Rangers team.
While a trade is always possible, I'd say getting this deal done ahead of his arbitration date, coupled with the significant pay raise from his $2.2 AAV on his last bridge deal, would suggest the chances of Schneider starting the season in New York are much higher than they were a week ago.
