DALLAS, Texas — The acquisition of Will Borgen focused on the 28-year-old defenseman's physicality.
The 6-foot-3, 204-pounder is expected to showcase his abilities in his Rangers debut Friday night against the Stars.
But after working out with several defensemen during Thursday's practice, it's unclear who Borgen will face next in the first game with the third team of his NHL career.
“He's a great defenseman who brings a physical element,” head coach Peter Laviolette said after the Rangers practiced at the Stars' practice facility in Farmers Branch. “He skates really well, makes a good first pass, moves the puck. He's a great addition, a big guy who skates with physicality and can play with an edge. That's a good thing. That’s it.”
Borgen arrived at a Chicago hotel and was informed by Kraken general manager Ron Francis that he was being traded to New York.
He packed his bags and headed to the airport as soon as possible, apparently in time for practice in Texas the next day.
Bogen knew a trade could happen because he is a pending unrestricted free agent.
The fact that his play this season has been sluggish also hinted at the possibility of a transfer for Borgen.
“It's mixed emotions,” said Borgen, who the Kraken selected from the Sabers in the 2021 expansion draft. “I've been in Seattle since the beginning and had a lot of fun, but I'm excited to be here,” Original Six team, New York City. It will be exciting. looking forward to it. ”
Since the trade just happened, there hasn't been much talk between the Rangers and Bogen about what his role will be.
He was considered a top-four prospect in Seattle for most of his tenure until the Kraken signed Brandon Montour this offseason, which pushed Borgen down to the third group.
Bogen is familiar with Johnny Brodzinski and Ryan Lindgren.
Borgen and Brodzinski are alumni of the St. Cloud State University hockey program, with Borgen coinciding with Brodzinski's younger brother Easton in his final season at the school.
Lindgren's younger brother Charlie also played at St. Cloud the first year Bogen played.
“I think I'm a pretty good skating defenseman. I think I can skate with most guys,” said Borgen, who wears No. 17. I'm a physical person. I play with a little edge and try to bring it every night. Try to get energy for the group. ”
Artemi Panarin (upper body injury) skated Thursday in a green non-contact jersey.
The status of Russia's star winger, as well as that of Matt Lempe, is up in the air heading into Friday's game against the Stars.
Lempe missed practice Wednesday night because he was recalled and was on his way to Dallas.
Quandre Miller (upper body injury, injured reserve) missed the trip to the Rangers, but resumed skating in New York.
