Calvin de Haan Voices Frustration Over Being Sidelined and Overall Treatment by Rangers
Although the New York Rangers’ season is nearing its end, the off-ice drama continues. Veteran defenseman Calvin de Haan openly voiced his dissatisfaction with how he’s been treated by the franchise, calling his situation “f—ed” in comments made to the media and on social media.
As he stepped onto the ice for an optional morning skate, de Haan didn’t hold back about being a healthy scratch for 18 straight games. De Haan, who came to New York as part of a trade package involving Ryan Lindgren, Jimmy Vesey, and Hank Kempf, played just three games after his arrival. Despite helping the team to a 2-0-1 record during that stretch, he hasn’t seen game action since, benched by head coach Peter Laviolette.
Initially, de Haan told reporters he would speak after practice and be “very transparent,” but following a brief exchange with a member of the team’s PR staff, he opted to wait until the season concludes before going into further detail. He made it clear the decision to hold off was his alone.
Still, before skating, de Haan let his emotions surface, telling reporters, “I’m just wasting time. It’s f—ed.” The quote quickly spread on social media, prompting him to later clarify his comments in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“I was frustrated,” he wrote. “And any competitor who says they’d be happy in this position would be lying. After playing three games and helping the team earn five points, I thought I might get another chance to contribute. Maybe I made a difference, maybe I didn’t — but we won.”
De Haan acknowledged the league’s shift toward younger players and admitted he doesn’t expect to play 20 minutes a night anymore. Still, he believes he can help in a more limited role.
“I’m not trying to be a distraction or throw shade on the organization,” he added. “I just wish I could’ve had a more respectful opportunity to explain how things have gone here. It’s been tough not being able to compete and do what I love.”
De Haan, a pending unrestricted free agent, finds himself in limbo. While his comments may not have been welcomed by the organization, they highlight a deeper issue — one that Rangers management, particularly GM Chris Drury, will need to consider as they evaluate both the roster and the atmosphere surrounding it this offseason.
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