New York Rangers head coach Alain Vigneault has had trouble spreading playing time throughout his defensive pairings in the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
As soon as next season, he could have another blue liner to fit into the rotation.
On Monday, the organization signed defenseman Neal Pionk to a three-year, entry-level deal. The former University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldog was one of the most sought-after young talents, as up to 20 teams had an interest in his services earlier this year.