Will Cuylle may still be considered one of the newer faces on the New York Rangers roster, but after the 2024–25 season he just delivered, “up-and-coming” no longer does him justice. At just 23 years old, Cuylle has emerged as the Rangers’ Most Improved Player, a relentless force on the ice who combines physicality, scoring touch, and a drive to get better that has fans and teammates alike buzzing with excitement.
Expectations Entering the Season
Coming into the season, Cuylle wasn’t exactly an unknown. After a solid rookie campaign, expectations were rising for the former Hartford Wolf Pack standout. But few could have predicted just how impactful he’d be in his sophomore year. Still early in his NHL career, Cuylle entered the 2024–25 season ready to prove he was more than just young energy—he wanted to be a difference-maker. And he was.
Energy, Grit, and Growth
Cuylle’s brand of hockey is built on physicality and effort, and he didn’t disappoint. Leading the team with 301 hits, Cuylle consistently brought momentum to the Rangers—laying out opponents, winning puck battles, and firing up the crowd with his aggressive, no-quit style. His coach, Peter Laviolette, summed it up best in March: “He’s been really good. His speed, his physicality—his role just keeps expanding and he’s growing into it.”
Offensive Breakthrough
The offensive numbers tell the story of Cuylle’s leap forward. After scoring 13 goals last season, he exploded for 20 goals this year—a 53% increase. But that wasn’t all. He added 25 assists, up from just 8 the season before. His total point tally more than doubled, from 21 to 45 points. Cuylle even tied with star teammate Mika Zibanejad for 5th on the team in goals, showing he’s not just a grinder—he can finish plays, too.
Defensive Commitment
Cuylle’s plus/minus rating of +12 led the team, showing his effectiveness at both ends of the rink. He’s not a player chasing stats—he’s playing complete hockey. Whether it’s blocking shots, forechecking hard, or tracking back on defense, Cuylle delivers shift after shift.
Fan Favorite and Award Winner
In early April, Cuylle was named the winner of the 2024–25 Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award, an honor voted on by Rangers fans. The award recognizes a player who goes the extra mile with passion and heart—and no one fit that mold better this season than Cuylle.
“Will Cuylle has been named the winner of the 2024-25 Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award,” MSG Networks shared, cementing his status not only as a fan favorite, but as a player whose value goes far beyond the stat sheet.
Report Card: A-
With a breakout season behind him, Cuylle earns an A- grade on his performance report. The minus reflects the one major area for growth: consistency. He had standout games and momentum-swinging moments, but if he can bring that same level every night, he’ll be looking at an A+ in no time. In college terms? He absolutely aced the class—just missed valedictorian by a hair.
What’s Next?
With the offseason underway, Cuylle has made it clear in his “exit day” interview that he’s focused on improvement. Consistency and special teams—particularly the penalty kill—are top priorities. That kind of self-awareness and drive bodes well for both his development and the Rangers’ future.
The Bigger Picture
While the team didn’t have the luckiest season overall, Cuylle’s personal growth stood out as a bright spot. From highlight-reel hits to critical goals, he gave fans something to cheer for even in tough stretches. And at only 23, he’s barely scratched the surface of what he could become.
Final Stretch
The Rangers closed the season with a mixed bag of results, including dominant wins against the Lightning and Islanders but tough losses to the Flyers and Devils. Despite the inconsistency, Cuylle remained a steady contributor, ending the year on a high note and giving the team a physical edge each night.
More Than Just a Rookie
Two seasons in, Cuylle has officially graduated from “rookie with potential” to “core piece of the future.” With each game, his confidence, skill, and leadership are growing. As the Rangers look to reload and rebound in 2025–26, Cuylle will be one of the key names to watch.
A Beast in the Making
There’s a reason clips of his monster hits go viral. Will Cuylle is a beast, and this season proved he’s more than just flash and fire—he’s substance. And he’s only just getting started.