The New York Rangers have made significant additions to their roster, signing goaltender Jonathan Quick and forward Blake Wheeler to one-year contracts. Quick’s deal is valued at $825,000 with the potential for an additional $100,000 in bonuses, while Wheeler’s contract includes a base salary of $800,000 and a maximum of $300,000 in bonuses.
Quick, a lifelong Rangers fan, brings his veteran presence and experience to the team. In the past two seasons, he has started 82 games, earning 39 wins with a 2.96 goals-against average, a .897 save percentage, and four shutouts. The question surrounding Quick’s role with the Rangers revolves around his ability to provide reliable backup play behind Igor Shesterkin.
Wheeler, on the other hand, drew significant interest during free agency, with teams like New Jersey, Carolina, Boston, and Florida considered potential destinations. Ultimately, he chose to join the Rangers on a one-year deal. Wheeler’s contract includes bonuses, and his camp had to narrow down the list of potential teams before finalizing the deal. The veteran forward’s desire to play in the Eastern Conference was a key factor in his decision.
As the Rangers head into the upcoming season, the additions of Quick and Wheeler add quality veterans to their roster. The team hopes that Quick can provide stability as a backup goaltender, while Wheeler’s experience and offensive prowess will contribute to the team’s success.
While questions remain about Quick’s performance and whether his best years are behind him, the Rangers believe in his abilities and will provide him with an opportunity to prove himself on the ice. The upcoming season will reveal how Quick and Wheeler fit into the Rangers’ plans and how they contribute to the team’s aspirations.
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