The New York Rangers have secured backup goaltender Dylan Garand with a two-year contract extension, positioning him as the likely successor to Jonathan Quick for the upcoming NHL season. Garand, 24, made his NHL debut this past season, appearing in three games and delivering strong performances that placed him behind starter Igor Shesterkin on the team’s depth chart.

The new deal offers a degree of financial flexibility for both Garand and the Rangers. In its first year, the contract is two-way, with Garand earning $850,000 at the NHL level and $400,000 in the American Hockey League (AHL). In the second year, the agreement shifts to a one-way contract with a league minimum salary of $900,000 under the 2027-28 salary cap, ensuring Garand’s pay remains consistent regardless of whether he plays in the NHL or AHL.

Speaking on the final day of the Rangers’ season, Garand expressed his determination to solidify his role in the organization. “I’m definitely hungry to play in this league and for this organization,” he said. “It’s very motivating for me going back into the summer. Now I know what it takes, and I know what I need to do this summer to come in, be prepared, and put my best foot forward.”

Although his NHL experience last season was limited to three appearances, Garand posted impressive numbers, going 2-0-1 with a .948 save percentage and a 1.62 goals-against average. Advanced metrics underscored his performance, with Garand recording 3.9 goals saved above expected, according to MoneyPuck.com.

Despite this promising start, the Rangers were cautious earlier in the season, as injuries to both Shesterkin and Quick necessitated recalling goaltenders from their AHL affiliate in Hartford. Rather than relying on Garand, the team opted to sign 31-year-old Spencer Martin, a veteran who came from the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). Martin played in six NHL games last season and is signed through next season with an $850,000 cap hit.

Martin’s presence complicates the Rangers’ goaltending depth situation. If Garand is not established as the clear backup by the start of training camp, he would have to be exposed to waivers to be sent back to Hartford, leaving the team vulnerable to losing him without compensation. It remains uncertain whether Garand has earned enough trust to assume and retain the backup position, but the contract extension signals the organization’s commitment to his continued development.