What A Contract Extension for Will Cuylle Could Look Like
Will Cuylle’s blend of skill and physicality makes him a perfect fit for New York’s evolving identity. But how much will it cost to keep him in blue?
The New York Rangers are pretty notorious for flopping on big draft picks. But the second round specifically has been a bit of a nightmare for them in recent history.
Prior to Will Cuylle being drafted 60th overall in 2020, previous second round picks from the Rangers included Karl Henriksson, Olof Lindbom, Ryan Gropp, and Brandon Halverson. The only second round draft pick they’ve made between 2013 and 2020 that has sniffed the NHL aside from Cuylle is Matthew Robertson, who has yet to become a true standout in the AHL or show signs of being capable of making the full-time jump to the NHL.
With that, the fact Will Cuylle has not only successfully made the jump to the NHL as soon as he has, but has done so with such impact is a fantastic sign for him and for the Rangers. Cuylle established himself as an effective bottom-six forward in his rookie campaign last year where he registered 21 points (13 goals and 8 assists) in 81 games played (should have been 82). Not only did he thrive in that role, but he led the league in hits by a rookie throughout the entire season. He has continued to grow his game this season, as he is currently sixth on the team in points with 29 (15 goals and 14 assists).
In 140 career games played, Will Cuylle has a total of 28 goals and 22 assists for a total of 50 career points.
As his entry-level contract is set to expire after this season, the Rangers will need to work out an extension and it would likely benefit them to do so sooner rather than later. Cuylle has continued to grow his game to the point where he can be trusted in a second line role and generate offense accordingly. With the cap set to jump as significantly as we're expecting, signing Cuylle to something longer-term right now could prove to be beneficial, but a bridge deal might make the most sense. At 23-years of age, there’s a very good chance this player is just entering his prime and could be a key impact player for years to come.
