NEW YORK — The New York Rangers signed forward Oliver Bjorkstrand to a one-year, $4.5 million contract on July 1, 2026. The contract does not include any trade protection clauses. Bjorkstrand, 31, previously played for the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he scored 12 goals and recorded 20 assists in 80 games during the previous season.

Nine of Bjorkstrand's 12 goals last season were scored on the power play, with the remaining three goals occurring at even strength. He held a minus-14 rating for the season. In 5-on-5 situations last season with the Lightning, the team was outscored 33-26 when Bjorkstrand was on the ice, though his expected goal share was 50.42 percent.

Bjorkstrand has played at least 77 games in every full NHL season since 2018-19. He was selected 89th overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2013 NHL Draft. During the 2021-22 season, Bjorkstrand scored 28 goals with the Blue Jackets. In the 2023-24 season, he accumulated 59 points while playing for the Seattle Kraken.

Throughout his career, Bjorkstrand has played in 704 NHL games, accumulating 416 points, which include 184 goals and 232 assists. Additionally, he has participated in 49 Stanley Cup Playoff games, recording 20 points, consisting of 10 goals and 10 assists.

Contract Details

The one-year term and specific salary indicate the immediate financial commitment. Bjorkstrand's offensive statistics from previous seasons, including his power-play emphasis and career totals, provide a snapshot of his on-ice contributions. The contract details, such as the absence of trade protection, outline the terms of his agreement with the Rangers.