NHL Free Agency: Rangers Get Important Deal Done; Re-Sign Will Cuylle

The New York Rangers have locked up one of their key young forwards, signing Will Cuylle to a two-year, $7.8 million extension on July 1. 

Will Cuylle Stays in New York on Two-Year Bridge Deal

The deal carries a $3.9 million average annual value and ensures the 23-year-old stays in the fold as a potential top-six option heading into the 2025-26 season. 

Cuylle, coming off a breakout 20-goal campaign, also set a new franchise record with 301 hits, cementing himself as both a physical force and emerging offensive presence.

The Rangers have agreed to terms with RFA Will Cuylle on a two-year, $3.9M AAV extension, per @FriedgeHNIC pic.twitter.com/WYCjP3IHxv

— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) July 1, 2025

Rangers Prioritize Cuylle After Free Agency Push

Rangers GM Chris Drury made Cuylle a top offseason priority following the signing of free-agent defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov. Cuylle’s new contract is the richest second deal for any New York forward, surpassing the $3.25 million AAV once given to Pavel Buchnevich. 

Though some fans hoped for a long-term commitment, Cuylle opted for a bridge deal, betting on himself as the salary cap rises and his role potentially expands following the departure of Chris Kreider.

Will Cuylle sticks with the #Rangers. pic.twitter.com/nzXCJ7xMrR

— PuckEmpire (@puckempire) July 1, 2025

Cuylle's Growth and the Bigger Picture

Cuylle's 45-point performance and growth as a two-way player, including penalty kill responsibilities, made him a prime offer sheet target, though one never materialized. 

The short-term deal gives both sides flexibility: Cuylle can aim for a major payday down the line, while the Rangers preserve cap space.

Photo Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images