Former New York Rangers Defenseman Looks To Resurrect His Professional Career After Signing Overseas
Photo credit: Brad Penner/USA Today
Former New York Rangers defenseman Ben Harpur's career has hit an all-time low. He's looking to revive his career by heading to the KHL, and has signed a new contract with the league's newest team, the Shanghai Dragons.
Much like Harpur's career, the Shanghai Dragons are a rebirth of the former Kunlun Red Star, who began to play in the league during the 2016 KHL season.
Instead of playing in Beijing, China, like they used to, they found a new home in Shanghai, and rebranded, with new colors and a new look. An all-around rebirth.
Harpur signing in the KHL comes after he did not land a contract with the Florida Panthers after participating in their training camp on a professional tryout (PTO). Now, the former Ranger will be playing overseas with the Dragons, where he should be a solid part of their blueline.
His failure to land a contract after his PTO with the Florida Panthers has led him to the next step in his career: overseas.
Harpur is a former NHL defenseman who will be joining the team for the inaugural season in Shanghai, and has played 198 games in the NHL, scoring a total of 21 points (2-19) and 143 penalty minutes.
His last professional season in North America was in 2024-25, where he played 29 games for the Hartford Wolfpack and scored 5 points (1-4).
Former New York Rangers Defenseman Ben Harpur To Resurrect Career in the KHL
Will Ben Harpur revive his professional hockey career in the KHL? His career in North America has been one of inconsistency as, he's played for multiple NHL teams, but couldn't find a home.
He's suited up for the Ottawa Senators, Nashville Predators, New York Rangers, and now the Shanghai Dragons.
Previously on NY Rangers Insider
