In a recent announcement, Chris Drury, President and General Manager of the New York Rangers, revealed that the team has acquired defenseman Chad Ruhwedel from the Pittsburgh Penguins. In exchange for Ruhwedel, the Rangers have sent a fourth-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft to Pittsburgh.

Born in San Diego, California, Ruhwedel has had an impressive career in the National Hockey League (NHL), playing for both the Penguins and the Buffalo Sabres. The 33-year-old defenseman has appeared in 359 NHL games, tallying 13 goals and 36 assists for a total of 49 points.

Ruhwedel's contributions this season with the Penguins have been notable, with one goal and three assists in 47 games played. He has also been a strong presence on the ice, ranking tied for fourth in hits and tied for sixth in blocked shots among Penguins players. Additionally, Ruhwedel has achieved a career-high in shorthanded time-on-ice per game, with an average of 2 minutes and 1 second.

Notably, Ruhwedel's performance in the 2021-2022 season showcased his growth and versatility, with career-highs in several categories. He played a total of 78 games, scoring 4 goals and providing 9 assists for a noteworthy total of 13 points. Ruhwedel also showcased his defensive capabilities with 149 hits and an impressive 86 blocked shots.

With a Stanley Cup victory in 2017, Ruhwedel brings valuable postseason experience to the Rangers. He has appeared in 25 career playoff games, including 12 in the 2018 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Ruhwedel's journey to the NHL began when he was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Buffalo Sabres in 2013. Prior to his professional career, he honed his skills as an alternate captain during his three-year collegiate career at the University of Massachusetts-Lowell.

The addition of Chad Ruhwedel to the New York Rangers' roster is expected to bolster the team's defensive capabilities and provide valuable playoff experience. As the Rangers continue their pursuit of success, Ruhwedel's contributions on both ends of the ice will undoubtedly be a significant asset.