Will Borgen experienced a whirlwind 48 hours upon learning he would start a new chapter in his NHL career with the New York Rangers.
The 28-year-old defenseman was traded, along with third- and sixth-round picks in the 2025 NHL Draft, to the Rangers in exchange for forward Kaapo Kakko on Wednesday. Borgen was in Chicago, where the Kraken were scheduled to face the Blackhawks the following day, when he received news of the trade. This was his first experience being traded; originally drafted by the Buffalo Sabres, he was selected by the Kraken in the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft and had been with them since.
“It was a mix of emotions. I had a lot of fun in Seattle from the start, but I’m really excited to be here with this Original Six team in New York City,” Borgen shared with reporters after his initial practice with the Rangers on Thursday.
He quickly packed his belongings, flew to Dallas, and joined the Rangers on the ice that day, which also happened to be his birthday.
“There’s never a good time for this. Today’s his birthday, so you’re saying happy birthday and Merry Christmas while also telling him he’s been traded,” said Kraken general manager Ron Francis during a Zoom call with reporters.
Nevertheless, Borgen expressed optimism about his new opportunity, particularly after dropping to the third defense pair in Seattle this season and averaging only 15:12 of ice time, over two minutes less than in the previous season. Despite his reduced offensive numbers (one goal, one assist after 25 points last season) and underwhelming defensive metrics (0.41 xGF per Natural Stat Trick), Borgen remains confident in what he can contribute to his new team.
“I believe I’m a solid skating defenseman. I can keep pace with most players, and I play physically,” he stated. “I bring a bit of an edge and aim to energize the group every night.”
The trades of Jacob Trouba and Kakko in the same month have stirred things up in the Rangers’ locker room, but Borgen’s addition may serve as a spark. NHL insider Frank Seravalli suggested on the Daily Faceoff LIVE show that Borgen could positively impact the Rangers, even if he isn’t one of the marquee players available.
“He’s not a flashy player and won’t dazzle you with standout skills,” Seravalli said, “but he’s dependable, has size, and good skating ability. He can help stabilize the Rangers’ defensive end, which is exactly what they need right now.”
The struggling Rangers, currently sitting in 10th place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 15-15-1 and having lost 11 of their last 14 games, are in desperate need of stability.
Borgen is anticipated to make his debut with the Rangers on Friday when they take on the Dallas Stars, aiming to break a three-game losing streak.
