Veteran defenseman Calvin de Haan has publicly expressed his frustration with the New York Rangers after being scratched for 18 consecutive games since his arrival in a trade from the Colorado Avalanche. The 33-year-old, who played just three games for the Rangers before being sidelined, vented his feelings during a morning skate, calling his treatment by the team “f—ked.”
De Haan’s dissatisfaction stems from his lack of playing time despite contributing to a 2-0-1 record in the games he did play. He voiced his disappointment on social media, explaining that he hoped to have a chance to help the team climb the standings. While acknowledging the NHL’s youth movement and his advancing age, de Haan emphasized that he still believes he can contribute effectively in specific roles.
The trade that brought de Haan to New York included Juuso Parssinen and conditional draft picks, with Ryan Lindgren and Jimmy Vesey heading to Colorado. Despite initial expectations that he would bolster the Rangers’ blue line, head coach Peter Laviolette buried him in the depth chart. De Haan described his time with the Rangers as frustrating, lamenting not being able to compete and do what he loves.
The Rangers’ season has been disappointing overall, missing the playoffs just a year after winning the Presidents’ Trophy. Laviolette acknowledged that changes are likely on the horizon for both players and staff, including his own position. The team struggled with consistency throughout the season, particularly in defensive organization and power-play execution.
As an unrestricted free agent this summer, de Haan is expected to sign elsewhere after this tumultuous stint with the Rangers. His comments highlight deeper issues within the organization, which has faced criticism for personnel decisions and underperformance.
De Haan’s candid remarks underscore his competitive spirit and desire to contribute, even as his career enters its later stages. With tensions high in New York, his departure seems inevitable as both player and team look ahead to new opportunities
