New York Rangers sign RFA defenseman Libor Hajek to 1-year two-way deal
The New York Rangers have signed restricted free agent defenseman Libor Hajek to a one-year deal worth $874,125. This was the Blueshirts qualifying offer. It is also a two-way contract with a minor’s salary of $70,000.
The team has yet to officially announce the deal.
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Libor Hajek signs 1-year deal
Hajek, 23, is another left shot defenseman that’s had his ups and downs since joining the Rangers. He made his long awaited debut in the 2018-19 season and scored a beautiful goal in his five game stint. Unfortunately, that season was ended abruptly after a shoulder injury.
He struggled the following season and scored five points in 28 games but had a -4 rating. This past year, he looked better defensively in spurts but seemed to lose the offensive side to his game. He managed just 2 goals and 2 assists in 44 contests, but had a +2 rating after being inserted permanently into the lineup in February.
The Rangers are loaded on the left side. Ryan Lindgren and K’Andre Miller are locked in the top two. The signing of Patrik Nemeth is the biggest indicator that Hajek is no longer in the Rangers plans.
Nils Lundkvist is expected to be penciled into the RD3 spot with fellow countryman Nemeth as his partner. The Rangers also signed rugged defender Jarred Tinordi as their 7th defenseman.
Hajek seems like a good candidate to be included in a trade. Even if it’s to a younger and upcoming team like the Red Wings or Coyotes for a draft pick.
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