On February 25, 2018 Rick Nash was traded to the Boston Bruins. In exchange, the Rangers received Ryan Lindgren, Ryan Spooner, Matt Beleskey, a 1st rd pick in 2018, and a 7th rd pick in 2019 from Boston.

Ryan Spooner was moved in a one for one deal to land Ryan Strome from the Oilers on November 16, 2018. At the 2018 NHL Draft, the Rangers moved that 1st rd pick (26th overall) to the Ottawa Senators to acquire the 22nd pick. That selection was used on K’Andre Miller.

Lindgren, the not well known piece would make his debut on the Rangers blue-line on January 15, 2019. Since that day he’s never looked back. He and Adam Fox now form one of the Blueshirts best defense pairings. They will both play a major role for the team this season.

Lindgren has emerged as a star for the Rangers

Ryan Lindgren has emerged as not only a staple on this young blue line but as one of the Rangers toughest players. The 23 year-old blue-liner’s face hasn’t met a puck or stick he doesn’t like yet! With his propensity for suffering a facial cut almost every game, his teammates recognized his will and desire to battle through anything.

While his partner and now Norris Trophy winner, Adam Fox was named team MVP, Lindgren was voted the Players’ Player this year. It’s an important award, because it shows just what his teammates think of him and it will likely lead to a letter on his sweater some day.

Lindgren also secured himself a three year extension this summer at $3M AAV. Further proof that the Rangers see a long future for him on Broadway.

In 51 games this season, he scored 16 points with a +/- rating of +20. The second round pick, 49th overall in the 2016 Draft has 30 points in 116 games, all with the Rangers.

Lindgren really endeared himself after battling Brad Marchand

Bruins super pest Brad Marchand had some disparaging remarks about Lindgren back during the 2019-20 season. It came after a 3-1 win where Lindgren was in Marchand’s face all night.

It all started when Lindgren introduced himself to Marchand by putting a shoulder into him at the bench. That basically ignited a feud between the two and led to chippy game.

Afterwards, Marchand who is the NHL’s poster child for agitators said, “[Lindgren] is not going to be a player there that’s going to have a very long career. I’m not overly concerned with him.”

I think it’s safe to say Marchand was wrong. Very wrong.

Latest NHL News

Elvis Merzlikins is dedicated this season to the late Matiss Kivlenieks. Read more.

NHL Notes: Merzlikins going for Vezina; Jesperi Kotkaniemi on new beginning; and Seguin getting healthy

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