New York Rangers sign Zac Jones to two-year contract extension

The New York Rangers have signed defenseman Zac Jones to a two-year contract.

According to the New York Post’s Mollie Walker, the deal carries an $812,500 AAV and will be a one-way deal for both years.

Drafted 68th overall in 2019, Jones played 16 games with the Rangers this season, scoring his first NHL goal and adding an assist for two points. Over three seasons, Jones has eight points in 38 games for the Rangers.

The 22-year-old spent most of the season with the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack, recording eight goals and 31 points in 54 games. He has 66 points in 106 games over two seasons since turning pro, an impressive number for a young defenseman.

Before turning pro, Jones was a standout with UMass in the NCAA. He was named to Hockey East’s all-rookie team in 2019-20 before winning the national title the following year. It was then that he was named to the national championship all-star team, as well as the All-USCHO’s first all-star team, and Hockey East’s second all-American team. Jones kicked off his first taste of playing against pros by winning bronze with USA at the 2021 World Championship, finishing as one of the team’s top three players.

According to Cap Friendly, the Rangers have $1.175 million in available cap space for 2023-24. The teamm has to figure out new deals for K’Andre Miller and Alexis Lafrienre, as well as figuring out who’ll back up Igor Shesterkin. Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko are pending UFAs, with both expected to test the free agent market.

The Rangers’ blueline could be a bit backed up for 2023-24, but Jones will have a good chance to challenge for a roster spot. Niko Mikkola is a pending UFA, and his departure could open up a spot for Jones. The defense core is led by Adam Fox, Jacob Trouba, Miller and Ryan Lindgren, with Braden Schneider and Ben Harpur providing extra depth.