There's Pressure On The Rangers To Finalize A Contract Extension With Will Cuylle Before The Unthinkable Happens

There’s one upcoming restricted free agent on the New York Rangers that’s flying under the radar, but still needs to be signed. 

That is none other than Will Cuylle. 

Cuylle is set to become a restricted free agent on July 1 and he still hasn’t been signed despite being one of the Rangers’ most talented young players. 

What is the hold-up in these contract negotiations, and is there actually a chance that we can see Cuylle leave New York?

According to The Athletic’s Peter Baugh, the Rangers have already been in talks with Cuylle about a potential contract extension. 

However, it’s unclear how far these talks have gone thus far and what is exactly holding the two sides up from agreeing on a deal.

If Cuylle and the Rangers do not come to terms on a contract extension by July 1 and he hits the restricted free agency market, Larry Brooks of The New York Post is reporting that the 23-year-old forward will be the most attractive impending offer-sheet targets around the league, alongside Matty Knies.

This doesn't necessarily mean Cuylle will depart from the Rangers if he’s offer-sheeted as the Blueshirts will have an opportunity to match any contract he’s offered. 

There is a sense of urgency to get a contract finalized before it does get to that point though, especially with the concept of offer sheets becoming more and more common in the NHL.

The pressure now shifts to Rangers president and general manager Chris Drury to ensure Cuylle is in The Big Apple long into the future.