Rangers Defenseman Gavrikov Emerges as Scoring Threat

Unexpected offensive production from $49 million offseason signing

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Vladislav Gavrikov, the Rangers' $49 million offseason signing, has emerged as an unexpected scoring threat on the team's blue line this season. After scoring just 11 goals over the previous two seasons, Gavrikov has already netted 12 goals, shattering his previous career high. The defenseman has scored in three straight games, tying a franchise record, and is now tied for the most goals by a Rangers defenseman in their first season with the team. Gavrikov's offensive contributions have been a welcome surprise as the Rangers navigate a difficult season and look to rebuild their roster.

Why it matters

Gavrikov's unexpected scoring touch provides a bright spot for the struggling Rangers, who are committed to a roster retool after a disappointing season. With uncertainty surrounding the futures of other key defensemen like Adam Fox and Braden Schneider, Gavrikov has emerged as one of the surest pieces on the Rangers' blue line, both in the present and long-term.

The details

After scoring in a third consecutive game, Gavrikov has collected 12 goals this season, shattering his previous career high of six. He is now tied with Hy Buller for the most goals by a Rangers defenseman in their first season with the team. Gavrikov's offensive production has been a welcome addition, as he has filled key roles on both the penalty kill and power play units while leading the team in ice time. His recent goal-scoring stretch has included a slick passing play to set up a goal, a rebound tally, and a rocket from the point.

  • Gavrikov scored a goal in the Rangers' loss to the Devils on March 7, 2026.
  • Gavrikov scored a goal in the Rangers' game against the Blue Jackets on March 2, 2026.
  • Gavrikov scored a goal in the Rangers' game against the Maple Leafs prior to the March 7 contest.

The players

Vladislav Gavrikov

A 27-year-old defenseman who signed a seven-year, $49 million contract with the Rangers in the offseason. He has emerged as an unexpected scoring threat on the Rangers' blue line this season.

Chris Drury

The Rangers' president and general manager, who signed Gavrikov in the offseason to improve the team's defensive coverage in front of the goaltenders.

Adam Fox

The Rangers' star defenseman, whose absences due to injury have forced some shuffling alongside Gavrikov throughout the season.

Braden Schneider

A Rangers defenseman whose name has swirled in trade rumors, creating uncertainty about the long-term status of the Rangers' blue line.

Mike Sullivan

The Rangers' head coach, who praised Gavrikov's offensive contributions as a "welcomed addition" to the team.

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What they’re saying

“From an offensive standpoint, I think he's had a really, really good year. He's everything we had hoped for defensively when we signed him, but his offensive game, I think, is something that's been a welcomed addition to our group — and we think he's been pretty good in that area of the rink.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach

What’s next

Gavrikov will have a chance to continue his three-game goal streak when the Rangers take on the Flyers on Monday, March 9, 2026.

The takeaway

Gavrikov's unexpected scoring touch has provided a bright spot for the struggling Rangers, who are committed to a roster retool. As the team navigates an uncertain future on the blue line, Gavrikov has emerged as one of the surest pieces, both in the present and long-term.