New York Rangers Sign Mika Zibanejad To Huge Extension

The New York Rangers have signed Mika Zibanejad to an eight-year extension. It will have an average annual value of $8.5 million.

8x$8.5M AAV, @NYP_Brooksie first to report https://t.co/sbcHoLSLfc
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 10, 2021

Zibanejad was eligible to become an unrestricted free agent next summer. Given the fact that he's the Rangers' top center, it's understandable that they decided to lock him up early.

In 56 games this past season, the 28-year-old scored 24 goals and recorded 50 points. It's important to note that 21 of his goals came in the final 29 games of the season. He stated that he felt off at the beginning of the season after a bout with COVID-19.

Zibanejad showed what he is truly capable of during the 2019-20 as well. In just 57 games, he scored 41 goals and had 75 points. If he can continue to put up seasons like that, the Rangers will be in fantastic shape.

Now that Zibanejad is extended, the Blueshirts can focus on extending Norris Trophy winner Adam Fox. Furthermore, this likely will take the Rangers out of the Jack Eichel sweepstakes.