The New York Rangers made a surprise move in the 2025 free agency period by signing University of Connecticut goaltender Callum Tung to a three-year entry-level contract. The 21-year-old netminder, considered one of the most intriguing college free agents this year, bolsters the Rangers’ goaltending pipeline amid questions about Jonathan Quick’s future beyond 2026.
Why Tung Matters
Unconventional Path: Tung went undrafted but posted a .917 SV% in 32 games for UConn this season, showcasing NHL-caliber reflexes and positioning.
Pipeline Security: With Igor Shesterkin locked in until 2033, Tung joins Hugo Ollas ($855k cap hit) as a developmental project, providing depth behind Quick ($1.55M through 2026).
Cap Flexibility: At a projected $850k-$925k cap hit, Tung’s deal allows the Rangers to preserve their $12.34M in 2025-26 space for bigger moves
The Bigger Picture
This signing follows a pattern of Rangers GM Chris Drury targeting under-the-radar talent:
March 2025: Signed 2023 first-rounder Gabe Perreault to an ELC
Defensive Overhaul: Committed $20.6M to five defensemen for 2025-26, including trade acquisitions Carson Soucy and Will Borgen
Shesterkin’s Shadow: Tung’s development buys time to evaluate whether Ollas or Tung can eventually serve as Shesterkin’s backup
What’s Next
While not a headline-grabbing star signing, Tung’s arrival signals the Rangers’ commitment to rebuilding their prospect pool after trading seven players since November. With Shesterkin carrying a $11.5M cap hit through 2033, finding cost-effective goaltending depth remains critical to maintaining contender status.
