Former New York Rangers defenseman Erik Gustafsson finally opens up on his departure from the team
Photo credit: NHL.com
Former New York Rangers forward Erik Gustafsson opens up on his departure from the organization after it completely flew under the radar.
Following the 2022-23 season the New York Rangers made the decision to sign the free agent Erik Gustafsson for the 2023-24 season. During his time with the Rangers in the 2023-24 campaign Gustafsson managed to tally six goals and 25 assists for a total of 31 points throughout 76 games played.
However, for unknown reasons, the Chris Drury and the Rangers elected not to re-signe Gustafsson, leaving him to ultimately sign with Detroit Red Wings on a two-year contract.
Former Rangers Erik Gustafsson opens up on his departure from the organization
After being away from the New York Rangers organization for a full year, Erik Gustafsson opened up and revealed that he still thinks about his time in New York and nothing but good things to say:
«It's a hell of a city,» Gustafsson said about New York. «Always fun to play in The Garden. Obviously, we had a great team, great run. Unfortunately, it ended in the Conference Final, but I have good memories from there. We loved where we loved up in Greenwich, Connecticut. I really loved the time I played there.»
The 33-year-old defenseman then continued to talk about his time in Stockholm, Sweden playing at the 2025 IIHF Men's World Championship where he is reunited with his former teammate Mika Zibanejad, as they represent Team Sweden.
During his one year in New York, Gustafsson and Zibanejad reportedly grew a strong bond, as both of them are from a Swedish background.
«Both of our wives know each other from the beginning,» Gustafsson said. «They have kids, we have kids. We hung around them a lot in New York, it was a lot of fun.
«It's also fun to be back in Stockholm playing at home in front of my friends and family and in front of his friends and family. It's good to see his wife and kids too.»
«It's also fun to be back in Stockholm playing at home in front of my friends and family and in front of his friends and family. It's good to see his wife and kids too.»
Even Rangers star forward Mike Zibanejad opened up on his departure and revealed his true opinion on the situation:
«It was sad he couldn't stay,» Mika Zibanejad said about Gustafsson's departure.
| POLL | ||
MAI 13 | 1702 ANSWERS Former New York Rangers defenseman Erik Gustafsson finally opens up on his departure from the team Do you think the Rangers made a mistake by not re-signing Erik Gustafsson? | ||
| Yes | 1205 | 70.8 % |
| No | 497 | 29.2 % |
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