Bryce McConnell-Barker – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #23

Introduction - Dave Hall, Profiles - Brock Otten — Mon, 16 Sep 2024 18:00:23 +0000

_{NEWARK, NJ - OCTOBER 04: New York Rangers left wing Brennan Othmann (78) skates with the puck during a preseason game between the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils on October 4, 2023 at Prudential Center in the Newark, New Jersey.(Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)}

Prospect System Ranking – 23rd (Previous Rank - 18th)
GM: Chris Drury Hired: May 2021
COACH: Peter Laviolette Hired: June 2023

Chris Drury continues to push the envelope in pursuit of a Stanley Cup, but despite the high expectations, the Rangers continue to fall short of their ultimate playoff goals. As a result, the draft pick column has taken the brunt of the impact, with only nine picks over the last two drafts.

To offset the lack of draft capital, the Rangers have begun to graduate several players who are now contributing nightly. Alexis Lafrenière looks to have broken through the barrier, while Braden Schneider and Zac Jones have become regulars on the team’s defensive rotation. Will Cuylle, too, is developing smoothly into a top nine producer, having just completed his rookie year on Broadway.

Looking deeper into the future, the Rangers’ prospect pool is highlighted by Gabe Perreault, who made the top 30 in our McKeen’s rankings. The 19-year-old is currently marinating in the NCAA, coming off an explosive freshman year at Boston College with 19 goals and 60 points. Perreault has also established himself as a showstopper on the international stage.

Knocking on the NHL door is Brennan Othmann (42nd), who finished fourth in AHL rookie scoring last year with 49 points in 67 games. Additionally, Othmann got a brief taste of NHL action with four games and is expected to be one of the Rangers' primary call-up options for the 2024-25 season. Meanwhile, 21-year-old Brett Berard (229th) capped off his rookie year in Hartford with 48 points, just one shy of Othmann to finish fifth in rookie scoring.

Rounding out the organization’s remaining crop, the Rangers have three additional prospects within McKeen’s top 300. Recent first-rounder EJ Emery, slated to begin his collegiate career at the University of North Dakota, occupies the 94th spot. Meanwhile, Adam Sýkora (284th) and goaltender Dylan Garand (285th) continue to develop their craft with the Wolf Pack but are still considered a few years away from NHL readiness.

In Drury’s view, it’s time to bring a Stanley Cup to Madison Square Garden, and he seems willing to do whatever it takes to get there. With only a first-round pick in the first four rounds of next year’s draft, it may take parting with a prospect or two to formulate a deal at the trade deadline.

New York Rangers Top-15 Prospects

1. Gabe Perreault

During the run of draft coverage last year, it felt like Gabe Perreault was being undervalued as some considered him a third wheel on the NTDP’s terrific first line including Will Smith and Ryan Leonard. As the three of them carried their success over to the NCAA level with Boston College, it has become abundantly clear that Perreault should be considered a terrific NHL prospect in his own right. Not only was he one of the best players in college hockey this past year, but he played a pivotal role for the United States in their gold medal victory at the WJC’s. Perreault is just such a slick and intelligent offensive player. He elevates the play of those around him with how he can manipulate defensive coverage. He has also upgraded his strength and quickness to allow him to be more consistently dangerous, in addition to becoming a better player away from the puck. It would appear that the New York Rangers got a good one here.

2. Brennan Othmann

The Rangers have to be very happy with how Othmann’s first pro season went. He was one of Hartford’s leading scorers and best players right from puck drop last year and, as such, earned a cup of coffee with the Rangers, too. Not only did he score, but his physical approach and strong work away from the puck also transitioned seamlessly. Based on his versatile skill set, it would appear a virtual lock that Othmann becomes an NHL player in some capacity. Facing a bit of a cap crunch, one has to wonder if New York is looking at Othmann as a potential bottom six forward this season. He certainly looks ready and capable. From an upside perspective, the range of outcomes is wide. Othmann could settle into more of a complementary middle six role or he could end up becoming a high end top six forward and point producer. If he’s back in the AHL, look for him to inch closer to the point per game mark.

3. EJ Emery

One of our draft favourites at McKeen’s Hockey this year, we loved his selection by New York at the end of the first round. The size and athleticism combination on the backend makes him such an intriguing player. It really comes down to whether you believe that Emery has offensive upside. He’s not likely to ever develop into a significant point producer, however late last season we saw promising growth in his ability to use his skating to help generate scoring chances while his overall confidence with the puck improved. As is, Emery is a potential defensive workhorse with his ability to smother opposing forwards. Emery admittedly models his game after fellow Rangers defender K’Andre Miller and the hope for New York is that Emery can develop similarly. He’ll head to North Dakota this year for his freshman NCAA season.

4. Brett Berard

Berard was a pleasant surprise for the Rangers last season. Much like Othmann, Berard was terrific for Hartford as an AHL rookie. The difference being that Berard was entering his rookie season with lower expectations after his development at Providence College had appeared to plateau. Instead, he was among the AHL’s top rookie scorers, and he looks the part of a future middle six, high energy guy for New York. The diminutive forward (at 5-foot-9) plays a fearless game. He’s a very aggressive forechecker. He can kill penalties. He drives the net and battles for touches in high traffic areas. He’s not an easy player for defenders to pin down. Is the offensive upside as significant as Othmann? We would say no. However, he looks like a future fan favourite in the Big Apple who can provide a ton of versatility to the coaching staff. That could happen as early as this season if the Rangers are looking to save cap space.

5. Adam Sykora

One of the few U20 players in the AHL last season, Sykora played a checking line role for Hartford, showing flashes of NHL potential. He was drafted with the mantra of being a real “lunch pail” type of player; someone who could do the dirty work on a scoring line and who could be a solid complementary piece in the middle six. Known for his physicality as a draft eligible player in Slovakia, Sykora just wasn’t strong enough or quick enough yet to be just that in the AHL last season. One has to wonder if he would have been better off playing in the CHL as a 20-year-old to help him gain confidence in his offensive abilities. All that said, it’s important to note Sykora’s age when analyzing his offensive production and overall confidence level in the AHL. He’s still a ways away from being an NHL player, but he also still possesses great upside as a high end third line player who can develop into a terrific two-way forward.

6. Dylan Garand

In 2022, Garand was on top of the world. He helped Canada capture a gold medal at the WJC and he was the CHL’s goaltender of the year. Two seasons ago, there were bumps along the road in his first pro season with Hartford, but optimism remained high. Last year, it would be tough to argue that Garand was that much better as a sophomore. Stagnation is never a great sign. Garand is a great play tracker and very technically sound, but is he athletic enough to make a true difference at the pro level given his lack of size? When you look at the smaller netminders excelling today like Juuse Saros, Dustin Wolf, and Devon Levi, they are all exceptional athletes. At this point, Garand needs to do a better job of fighting through traffic to make saves and challenging shooters more aggressively to help him overcome his size deficit. His play in the AHL playoffs showed promise and he’s still the team’s top option in net for the future, but the 2024-25 season will be a big one for his development.

7. Noah Laba

Laba was one of the most improved players in the Rangers’ system this past year after earning a Hobey Baker nomination with Colorado College. He was good as a freshman two years ago, but this past year he carried Colorado College to 20 wins and a top ranking. They ended up barely missing out on earning a spot in the Frozen Four tournament, but the season was a massive success as CC finished with a winning record for the first time in over a decade. Laba is your prototypical, hard working, two-way center. He has good size and length. He skates well. He brings a physical element. He shows great awareness in all three zones. Laba will return to Colorado College for his junior year and this is a great thing for his development. The Rangers will be looking for another jump in production from him as the talent around him improves. He looks like a future middle six candidate.

8. Matthew Robertson

Matthew Robertson and the Rangers are about to arrive at a crossroads. At this point in his development, after three pro seasons, Robertson is what he is. The offensive game was never going to be his calling card. However, Robertson excels in the defensive end as a physical, shut down type. Next season, Robertson is going to require waivers in order to be sent to Hartford, but after three AHL seasons, he has yet to play a single NHL game as a call-up. Is he ready? That’s a question that will be answered at this season’s training camp where New York will give him a shot to earn a role on the team’s third pairing or as the team’s seventh defender. Can he keep up with the pace of NHL forwards and not be a liability with the puck in the face of an NHL forecheck? As a former high pick who has played decently well as a pro, he should remain fairly highly regarded; he is still a potentially solid #4 who can work well with a more offensively oriented rearguard.

9. Drew Fortescue

It ended up being a terrific post draft year for Fortescue, following former NTDP teammate Gabe Perreault to Boston College. Fortescue ended up playing a key defensive role for BC as a freshman, while also helping the U.S. capture gold at the World Junior Championships. The strong skating, 6-foot-2 defender plays a steady, mature game in the defensive end. His transitional defence is excellent because of his footwork, and he’s worked hard to bulk up to make himself more difficult to play against. At times, his play with the puck and overall decision making can leave some to be desired. He’s going to need to work on his exits and his ability to handle the forecheck, but should that happen, Fortescue has the skill set to become a dependable #4-5 defender for the Rangers in the future. Just don’t expect him any time soon, as he likely spends another couple years in college to help him improve his two-way game and confidence.

10. Bryce McConnell-Barker

The Soo Greyhounds had a really strong season in the OHL last year. You would have figured that would have correlated with BMB (as he’s affectionately known) having a great year individually. That wasn’t really the case as we saw other Greyhounds step up and overtake him in terms of making a consistent impact. McConnell-Barker is still a solid NHL prospect because of his shot/scoring potential, solid skating base, and developing two-way instincts. However, there is concern that his development has plateaued a bit after he failed to crack the point per game mark as a 20-year-old in the CHL, often times the kiss of death for a player’s NHL upside. McConnell-Barker still needs to develop that killer instinct that would take his game to another level. His physical intensity can waver and in order to be an impact pro, that will need to improve. He will turn pro this year with Hartford and will likely be brought along slowly given Hartford’s depth.

11. Matthew Rempe

Is there an NHL prospect who made more headlines last year than Matt Rempe? The big winger took the NHL by storm thanks to his physicality and pugilist activities. Rempe will never be known for his offensive abilities. However, he impressed at times with his energy and work off the puck as part of New York’s fourth line. Is his play sustainable or is he a flash in the pan because of how often he has been fighting? That remains to be seen.

12. Ryder Korczak

Korczak, a crafty, playmaking pivot is coming off his first pro season with Hartford. He played a depth role for the Wolf Pack, helping him adjust to the pace of the pro game. Korczak isn’t the biggest guy in the world, so the focus for him needs to be on bulking up so that he can find greater consistency. The Rangers will be looking for him to take on a larger offensive role with Hartford this coming season.

13. Dylan Roobroeck

The hulking pivot had a breakthrough season with the Oshawa Generals last year, helping them reach the OHL finals. He’s a strong two-way forward because of his length and physicality. Roobroeck also excels at the faceoff circle and should stick down the middle. He’ll turn pro this year with Hartford and the Rangers should gain a better understanding of his offensive upside at that time.

14. Jaroslav Chmelar

Another big forward, Chmelar has turned pro after two years at Providence College. While Chmelar’s offensive production as a sophomore was disappointing, he performed well in the AHL playoffs for Hartford after signing late last year, giving hope that he can develop into a future NHL player.

15. Raoul Boilard

A fourth-round selection by the Rangers in 2024, Boilard is a raw, toolsy pivot that we had ranked in the late second round. Consistency has been an issue, especially in terms of his off-puck involvement, however Boilard has solid offensive upside as a middle six, playmaking center.

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #18 New York Rangers – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Player Profiles - Brock Otten, Team Overview - Robert Howard — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 18:00:54 +0000

BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 12: Boston College forward Gabe Perreault (34) eyes a face off during the Beanpot Consolation game between Boston College and Harvard on February 12, 2024, at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire)

The Presidents Trophy winner with the best record in the NHL, the Rangers remain right in the heart of their window to win the cup. As of this writing the team has fallen to Florida Panthers in the Eastern Conference final. After two seasons of being aggressive buyers at the deadline, Chris Drury decided to not mess with a winning formula. He added Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko in 2023, only to bow out in the first-round last year. Largely the same veteran cast is returned for the playoffs, and cap space will continue to be an issue. Therefore, the importance of moving prospects into the line-up becomes that much more important.

The Rangers have had some success in graduating prospects in recent years. This season Braden Schneider, William Cuylle and Zac Jones joined Alexis Lafreniere and Kappo Kakko from the last five drafts playing in the lineup. They have largely held onto the first-round picks over the years and nabbed another good one in Gabe Perreault at 19th overall last year. He is currently ranked 19th overall in McKeen’s top 200 list. He is followed closely by Brennan Othmann at 26th overall. While Perreault is still a year away or more, Othmann could be ready now. If a vet is traded for cap space, the infusion of low-priced young blood will help keep the window open a little longer. The emergence of the 2020 first overall pick, Alexis LaFreniere, as a top six threat was exactly what the Rangers needed. He is an RFA following this season, while Kakko is an RFA this year. Having had more muted success, he may look for bigger money down the road and bridge. The roster boasts an impressive balance of vets and emerging youth, which includes Filip Chytil (24-years old). The Rangers are hoping it is the recipe for success as soon as this year.

RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	TM	Acquired	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
1	Gabe Perreault	RW	18	5-11/165	Boston College (HE)	`23(23rd)	36	19	41	60	29
2	Brennan Othmann	LW	21	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	`21(16th)	67	21	28	49	65
3	Matthew Robertson	D	23	6-3/200	Hartford (AHL)	`19(49th)	68	4	17	21	49
4	Brett Berard	LW	21	5-9/165	Hartford (AHL)	`20(134th)	71	25	23	48	62
5	Adam Sykora	RW	19	5-10/170	Hartford (AHL)	`22(63rd)	66	8	15	23	4
6	Bryce McConnell-Barker	C	19	6-1/195	Soo Greyhounds (OHL)	`22(97th)	52	22	29	51	22
7	Dylan Garand	G	21	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	`20(103rd)	39	16	17	3.03	0.898
8	Drew Fortescue	D	19	6-1/175	Boston College (HE)	`23(90th)	40	4	4	8	36
9	Noah Laba	C	20	6-2/190	Colorado College (NCHC)	`22(111th)	36	20	17	37	27
10	Matthew Rempe	C	21	6-8/235	Hartford (AHL)	`20(165th)	43	8	4	12	96
					NY Rangers (NHL)	`20(165th)	17	1	1	2	71
11	Ryder Korczak	C	21	5-11/175	Hartford (AHL)	`21(75th)	67	9	11	20	28
12	Karl Henriksson	C	23	5-9/165	Hartford (AHL)	`19(58th)	64	11	12	23	12
13	Dylan Roobroeck	C	19	6-6/190	Oshawa (OHL)	`23(178th)	68	26	46	72	101
14	Brandon Scanlin	D	24	6-4/215	Hartford (AHL)	FA(3/22)	64	8	8	16	39
15	Olof Lindbom	G	23	6-2/185	Cincinnati (ECHL)	`18(39th)	29	10	15	3.56	0.884

1. Gabe Perreault, RW, Boston College (NCAA)

During the run of draft coverage last year, it felt like Gabe Perreault was being undervalued as some considered him a third wheel on the NTDP’s terrific first line including Will Smith and Ryan Leonard. As the three of them have carried their success over to the NCAA level with Boston College, it has become abundantly clear that Perreault should be considered a terrific NHL prospect in his own right. Not only was he one of the best players in college hockey this year, but he played a pivotal role for the United States in their gold medal victory at the WJC’s. He is just such a slick and intelligent offensive player. He elevates the play of those around him with how he can manipulate defensive coverage. He has also upgraded his strength and quickness to allow him to be more consistently dangerous, in addition to becoming a better player away from the puck. It would appear that the Rangers got a good one here.

2. Brennan Othmann, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

The Rangers have to be very happy with how Othmann’s first pro season went. He’s been one of Hartford’s leading scorers and best players right from puck drop this year and, as such, has earned a cup of coffee with the Rangers too. Not only has he been scoring, but his physical approach and strong work away from the puck have also transitioned seamlessly. Based on his versatile skill set, it would appear a virtual lock that he becomes an NHL player in some capacity. Facing a bit of a cap crunch thanks to some high profile RFA’s, one has to wonder if New York trades off a veteran forward or two in order to make room for Othmann as a top nine forward next season. He certainly looks ready and capable. From an upside perspective, the range of outcomes is wide. He could settle into more of a complementary middle six role, or he could end up becoming a high-end top six forward and point producer.

3. Matthew Robertson, D, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Matthew Robertson and the Rangers are about to arrive at a crossroads. At this point in his development, after three pro seasons, he is what he is. The offensive game was never going to be his calling card. However, he does excel in the defensive end as a physical, shut down type. Next season, it will require waivers to be sent to Hartford, yet after three AHL seasons, he has yet to play a single NHL game. Is he ready? That’s a question that will be answered at next season’s training camp where he will have a shot at a role on the team’s third pairing or as a seventh defender. Can he keep up with the pace of NHL forwards and not be a liability with the puck in the face of an NHL forecheck? As a former high pick who has played fairly well as a pro, he should remain fairly highly regarded; he is still a potentially solid #4 who can work well with a more offensively oriented rearguard.

4. Brett Berard, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Brett Berard has been a pleasant surprise for the Rangers this season. Much like Othmann, he has been terrific for Hartford as an AHL rookie. The difference being that Berard was entering his rookie season with lower expectations after his development at Providence College had appeared to have plateaued. Instead, he’s been among the AHL’s top rookie scorers, and he looks the part of a future middle six, high energy guy for New York. The diminutive forward (at 5’ 9”) plays a fearless game. He’s a very aggressive forechecker. He can kill penalties. He drives the net and battles for touches in high traffic areas. He’s not an easy player for defenders to pin down. Is the offensive upside as significant as Othmann? We would say no. However, he looks like a future fan favourite in the Big Apple who can provide a ton of versatility to the coaching staff. That could happen as early as next season if the Rangers are looking to save cap space.

5. Adam Sykora, RW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

One of the few U20 players in the AHL this season, Sykora has played a checking line role for Hartford, showing flashes of NHL potential. He was drafted with the mantra of being a real “lunch pail” type of player; someone who could do the dirty work on a scoring line and who could be a solid complementary piece in the middle six. Known for his physicality as a draft eligible player in Slovakia, he just wasn’t strong enough or quick enough yet to be just that in the AHL this season. One has to wonder if he would have been better off playing in the CHL as a 20-year-old to help him gain confidence in his offensive abilities. All that said, it’s important to note his age when analyzing his offensive production and overall confidence level in the AHL. He’s still a ways away from being an NHL player, but he also still possesses great upside as a high end third line player who can develop into a terrific two-way forward.

6. Bryce McConnell-Barker, C, Soo Greyhounds (OHL)

The Soo Greyhounds had a really strong season in the OHL this year. You would have figured that would have correlated with BMB (as he’s affectionately known) having a great year individually. That wasn’t really the case as we saw other Greyhounds step up and overtake him in terms of making a consistent impact. McConnell-Barker is still a solid NHL prospect because of his shot/scoring potential, solid skating base, and developing two-way instincts. However, there is concern that his development has plateaued a bit after he failed to crack the point per game mark as a 20-year-old in the CHL, often times the kiss of death for a player’s NHL upside. He still needs to develop that killer instinct that would take his game to another level. His physical intensity can waver and in order to be an impact pro, that will need to improve. He will turn pro next year with Hartford and will likely be brought along slowly given their depth.

7. Dylan Garand, G, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

In 2022, Dylan Garand was on top of the world. He helped Canada capture a gold medal at the WJC and he was the CHL’s goaltender of the year. Last season, there were bumps along the road in his first pro season with Hartford, but optimism remained high. This year, it would be tough to argue that Garand was that much better as a sophomore. Stagnation is never a great sign. He is a great play tracker and very technically sound, but is he athletic enough to be a true difference at the pro level given his lack of size? When you look at the smaller netminders excelling today like Juuse Saros, Dustin Wolf, and Devon Levi, they are all exceptional athletes. At this point, Garand needs to do a better job of fighting through traffic to make saves and challenging shooters more aggressively to help him overcome his size deficit. He’s still the team’s top option in net for the future, but the 2024-25 season will be a big one for his development.

8. Drew Fortescue, D, Boston College (NCAA)

It ended up being a terrific post draft year for Drew Fortescue, following former NTDP teammate Gabe Perreault to Boston College. Fortescue ended up playing a key defensive role for BC as a freshman, also helping the U.S. capture gold at the World Junior Championships. The strong skating, 6’ 2” defender plays a steady, mature game in the defensive zone. His transitional defense is excellent because of his footwork, and he’s worked hard to bulk up to make himself more difficult to play against. At times, his play with the puck and overall decision making can leave something to be desired. He’s going to need to work on his exits and his ability to handle the forecheck, but should that happen, Fortescue has the skill set to become a dependable #4-5 defender for the Rangers in the future. Just don’t expect him any time soon, as he likely spends another couple years in college to help him improve his two-way game and confidence.

9. Noah Laba, C, Colorado College (NCAA)

Laba was one of the most improved players in the Rangers’ system this year after earning a Hobey Baker nomination with Colorado College. He was good as a freshman two years ago, but this year he carried Colorado College to 20 wins and a top ranking. They ended up barely missing out on earning a spot in the Frozen Four tournament, but the season was a massive success as CC finished with a winning record for the first time in over a decade. Laba is your prototypical, hardworking, two-way center. He has good size and length. He skates well. He brings a physical element. He shows great awareness in all three zones. It would appear that Laba will return to Colorado College for his junior year, and this is a great thing for his development. The Rangers will be looking for another jump in production from him as the talent around him improves. He looks like a future middle six candidate.

10. Matthew Rempe, C, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Is there an NHL prospect who has made more headlines this year than Matt Rempe? The big winger has taken the NHL by storm thanks to his physicality and pugilistic activities. Now in his second year of pro hockey after a junior career with the Seattle Thunderbirds, Rempe will never be known for his offensive abilities. His skill set is limited to work near the net, although he has the potential to be a near immovable object from that area with his 6’ 8”, 240 lbs frame. However, he has impressed at times with his energy and work off the puck as part of New York’s fourth line since a call up. Is his play sustainable or is he a flash in the pan because of how often he has been fighting? That remains to be seen. At the very least, he has shown himself to be an intriguing prospect who could have a long career in a depth role, on top of being a fan favourite in the Big Apple.

PROSPECT CRITERIA: Players under 26 years of age as of 9/15/2024 who have appeared in less than 60 games (30 for goalies) and less than 25 in one season (25 for goalies).

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #23

Brock Otten, Derek Neumeier, Chapin Landvogt and Josh Bell — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 12:00:43 +0000

NEWARK, NJ - OCTOBER 04: New York Rangers left wing Brennan Othmann (78) skates with the puck during a preseason game between the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils on October 4, 2023 at Prudential Center in the Newark, New Jersey.(Photo by Andrew Mordzynski/Icon Sportswire)

Top 20 New York Rangers Prospects

1. Brennan Othmann

With the game on the line, there are not many prospects that you’d rather have on the ice. Othmann seems to shine when his team is in the thick of things, stepping up his game to the occasion. Selected 16th overall in 2021, he was coming off a season overseas with EHC Olten in the Swiss League, while also winning an Under 18’s gold medal with Canada. The next season, returning to the OHL as the captain of the Flint Firebirds, he popped off with a 97-point performance. He also helped Canada to a World Juniors gold medal - his first of two consecutive golds at the prestigious tournament. His production slowed last year, but there’s no call for panic with the prospect. Othmann has one of the best shots of any prospect, has high-end offensive awareness, and brings a physical presence to the ice. He has top six potential and should be a fan favourite.

2. Zac Jones

It feels like Jones has been around forever with the Rangers. He was drafted in 2019, 68th overall, out of the USHL Tri-City Storm. With the Storm, he was named Rookie of the Year, led all defensemen in assists (45), and was named to the Second All-Star Team. He then jumped to the NCAA with UMass the following season, where he spent two years before turning pro. In his sophomore season, he helped the team to an NCAA title, while being named to the All-Tournament team. He also dressed for Team USA at the World Championship, winning a bronze medal. He signed with the Rangers after that title run and has been on the cusp of breaking into the NHL ever since. Jones is a strong quarterback, leading play from his own end. He’s a very intelligent player that will translate very well to the NHL and should be a successful top four defender.

3. Gabe Perreault

Auston Matthews, Jack Hughes, Clayton Keller, Matthew Tkachuk, Jack Eichel. Just a few of the names that Perreault passed this year as he broke the single season point record as part of the USNTDP U18 team. An average-sized forward without elite physical tools, Perreault is not a dynamic skater. A lack of high-end agility and edgework can limit his ability to evade pressure and work between the hash marks. As his draft year progressed, he underwent a transformation becoming significantly more assertive and finding ways to fight through contact to become less of a perimeter player. Additionally, as you might expect as the son of former NHLer Yanic Perreault, Gabe has high end awareness and vision. His IQ grade was among the highest of any player eligible in 2023. Headed to Boston College with his NTDP linemates (Will Smith and Ryan Leonard), he will be given lots of time to develop physically before he turns pro. He will likely need it too. He can ultimately be a strong complementary scoring line piece with the right physical development.

4. Will Cuylle

It’s been a steady rise for the Rangers’ 60th overall pick from the 2020 NHL Draft since hearing his name called. He had to make the jump to the AHL during the OHL-cancelled season. He played well at the higher level, but didn’t impact the play too much. He returned to the OHL as the captain of the Windsor Spitfires in 2021-22, putting up an 80-point performance and adding another 31 points in the playoffs. That was enough for the Rangers, who brought him back up to the Hartford Wolf Pack where he has since been the team’s top scorer. Cuylle has an excellent shot and loves to make things happen, always seeming to get involved in the play. He’s strong and knows how to use his strength, which should help him become an impactful third liner in the NHL. He saw some games last season and shouldn’t be too far off now from earning a permanent NHL roster spot.

5. Matthew Robertson

Drafted 49th overall in 2019, Robertson has always been a consistent, reliable defender. His development has then followed suit, steadily rising since his time with the WHL Edmonton Oil Kings. His production steadily rose, and the Rangers bet on that continuing when they called his name. In 2021-22, he made the jump to the AHL and that steady upwards trend has continued. The question will be how high he can continue to rise and where will he flatten out. A sturdy defender who moves well, especially for his 6 -4” height. He can chip in offensively, showing that he knows when to creep up into the play in the offensive zone. Robertson keeps an active stick and does well at breaking plays up. There isn’t anything that screams NHL, but his lack of glaring holes is interesting as well. Unless he surprises, he’s likely en route to a role as a depth defender.

6. Adam Sykora

One of many exciting Slovak prospects in the 2022 Draft-class, the Rangers called Sykora’s name 63rd overall. He had spent the better part of the past two seasons with HK Nitra in the top Slovak professional league, steadily raising his stock each season. His 2021-22 season also impressed at the international level, dressing for Slovakia in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, D1A U18s, WJC, and the World Championships. Sykora is a hard-working prospect, who you can never count out of a play. His hands also stand out, as he seems to catch every puck that comes near him. He could be plugged anywhere into the lineup, in any situation, and you’d be more than happy with his play. He likely carves out a comfortable role for himself as a third liner but could outperform that given his drive.

7. Dylan Garand

It seems to be a quiet fact that Garand is one of the top goaltending prospects out there right now. After a successful WHL career capped off by a dominant final season that saw him win both WHL and CHL Goaltender of the Year awards, he has now made the jump to the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack. A quick glance at his numbers would make it seem like he struggled to adjust, but if you watch him you wouldn’t think that’s the case. He’s an athletic netminder who plays a great technical game, and his positioning is usually excellent. Garand is a calm presence behind a group of players that love his attitude and love playing in front of him, and that’s something that will influence his continued progress. As with most goalies, there’s no rush here and the Rangers can be patient with him in the AHL.

8. Bryce McConnell-Barker

McConnell-Barker headed into his OHL rookie campaign only to have the entire season shut down due to the pandemic. He came into 2021-22, his new rookie season as well as his draft year, and had to get quickly back up to speed. He had a good season but didn’t overly impress and went from a prospect once considered a first rounder to being selected 97th overall. Last season, however, he was named team captain and took a massive step forward. The Rangers noticed this, and rewarded him with an entry-level deal. He has a good wrist shot and plays a very smart, relatively mistake-free game. There’s nothing elite to his game that will carry him forward, but his consistency could see him rise to a bottom six or depth piece.

9. Brett Berard

The players that never quit, always battle hard, and seem to be involved in every play seem to make it more often than not, and Berard falls into that category. After being drafted 134th overall in 2020 from the USNTDP, the winger moved to NCAA Providence College. It took him a season to adjust, but he got very comfortable in 2021-22, being named to the Hockey East Third All-Star Team. His production dipped a bit in 2022-23, but the Rangers had seen enough, signing him to his first NHL contract and bringing him up to the AHL. He’s on the smaller side at 5- 9”, but he always has his foot on the gas and has a deceptive amount of skill. His small-area game and ability to win puck battles stands out, as he ends up with the puck far more often than you would otherwise expect. Look for him to carve out a bottom six role in the NHL.

10. Ryder Korczak

Selected 75th overall in the 2021 Draft, Korczak seemed like he was going to steal an AHL roster spot to start the year but couldn’t find his footing and was ultimately sent back to the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors where he had a very strong season. In his last season in the league, he stood out as a leader on the team while having great production. His shot really took a step forward as well, as he looked much more comfortable shooting rather than his usual pass-first tendency. He does well at driving the play into the offensive zone and found success on the power play last season. His ceiling isn’t overly high and probably ends up as a depth forward but could be a player always in the conversation to earn a spot at the start of the season.

11. Ty Emberson

A right shot defender with a physical edge, Emberson emerged as one of Hartford’s best blueliners last season. Acquired from Arizona, he has pushed himself close to the top of the Rangers’ call up options and is firmly in their future plans.

12. Drew Fortescue

One of the most improved players on the USNTDP last season, Fortescue parlayed his improved play into a third-round selection. The mobility is a standout quality, but how the rest of his game comes together at Boston College remains a bit of a mystery.

13. Noah Laba

The tenacious two-way center had a great freshman year for Colorado College and subsequently earned a spot on the United States’ world junior team. Laba is a potential third- or fourth-line center for the Rangers after a few more years in College.

14. Bobby Trivigno

A former standout with UMass and a Hobey Baker nominee, Trivigno’s first pro season in Hartford was a disappointment. His lack of size and strength really appeared to hinder his production. Can he improve in his second year?

15. Karl Henriksson

Henriksson does a lot of things well, but one can’t help but wonder if his development has stalled. He showed flashes of effectiveness as a two-way playmaker last year as an AHL rookie, but at his size, what’s the upside?

16. Maxim Barbashev

The younger brother of Vegas standout Ivan Barbashev, Maxim brings a lot of the same things to the table. As he returns to Moncton for his OA year, the focus needs to be on improving his skating.

17. Jaroslav Chmelar

Thus far, Chmelar is the kind of player whose production has yet to match the eye test and his assumed potential. The big winger is plenty skilled and he was apparently a standout at the Rangers development camp, however more will be expected from him at as a sophomore with Providence College.

18. Brandon Scanlin

A free agent signing out of Nebraska-Omaha, Scanlin was adequate as an AHL rookie for Hartford last year. However, the Rangers’ system is quickly getting crowded with similar types of defenders. Can Scanlin pass any on the depth chart?

19. Adam Edstrom

An unmovable object near the crease thanks to his humongous frame, the question will ultimately be, can Edstrom skate well enough to keep pace at the pro level in North America? He will be an AHL rookie with Hartford this season.

20. Lauri Pajuniemi

The Rangers will retain Pajuniemi’s rights as he leaves for the SHL this season. His offensive abilities never truly translated to the AHL level and the Rangers’ pro depth certainly played a role in blocking him. Not a complete write off yet, but close.

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #22 New York Rangers

Josh Bell — Sun, 14 May 2023 14:48:50 +0000

Prospect System Ranking – 22^nd (20^th last year)

Expectations were high this season. The disappointment in a first-round loss to neighbors and rivals, the New Jersey Devils, was a tough pill to swallow. Chris Drury assumed the GM role in 2021, and he benefited from the fruits of the rebuild, announced in the famous 2018 letter from his predecessor. The Rangers have graduated six prospects from the last five drafts in Lafreniere (1^st), Schneider (19^th), Kakko (2^nd), Kravtsov (9^th – traded to Vancouver), K’Andre Miller (22^nd) and Nils Lundkvist (28^th – traded to Dallas). Since then, Drury has focused on the present in an attempt to win a Stanley Cup now, particularly following a conference final appearance in 2022. He traded his 2022 first round, second and fifth round picks for free agent Andrew Copp for that result. Copp moved on following the season. This year he made even more dramatic acquisitions in Patrick Kane and Vladimir Tarasenko, sending a slew of picks including the Dallas Stars first rounder they acquired for Lundkvist. Neither are likely to re-sign with the club.

With an outstanding core with a foundation goaltender in Igor Shesterkin, and perennial Norris candidate Adam Fox, they will be once again moving futures for immediate help. They have their own first round picks for the next three years, if the rest of the cupboard has been largely cleared out. While the pool is ranked in the bottom third, they have two excellent prospects that are highly ranked – Brennan Othmann (#30) and Zac Jones (#60) who should be able to make an impact in the near future. Jones as soon as next season, while Othmann probably needs more time to develop, but with top six potential.

NEW YORK, NY - SEPTEMBER 29: New York Rangers Left Wing Brennan Othmann (78) and New York Rangers Defenseman Matt Barkowski (14) are pictured prior to the National Hockey League preseason game between the New Jersey Devils and the New York Rangers on September 29, 2022 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. (Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire)

Brennan Othmann

With the game on the line, there are not many prospects that you’d rather have on the ice. Brennan Othmann seems to shine when his team is in the thick of things, stepping up his game to the occasion. Selected 16th overall in 2021, he was coming off a season overseas with EHC Olten in the Swiss League, while also winning an Under 18’s gold medal. The next season, returning to the OHL as the captain of the Flint Firebirds, he popped off with a 97-point performance. He also helped Canada to a World Juniors gold medal - his first of two straight. His production has slowed this year, but there’s no call for panic with the prospect. He has one of the best shots of any prospect, has high-end offensive awareness, and brings a physical presence to the ice. He has top-six potential and should be a fan favourite.

2. Zac Jones

It feels like Zac Jones has been around forever with the Rangers. He was drafted in the 2019 NHL Draft, 68th overall, out of the USHL and the Tri-City Storm. With the Storm, he was named Rookie of the Year, led all defensemen in assists (45), and was named to the Second All-Star Team. He then jumped to the NCAA and UMass the following season, where he spent two years. In his sophomore season, he helped the team to an NCAA title, while being named to the All-Tournament team. He also dressed for Team USA at the World Championship, winning a bronze medal. He signed with the Rangers that season and has been on the cusp of breaking into the NHL ever since. He’s a strong quarterback, leading play from his own end. He’s a very intelligent player that will translate very well to the NHL and should be a successful top-four defender.

3. Will Cuylle

It’s been a steady rise for the Rangers’ 60th overall pick in the 2020 NHL Draft since hearing his name called. After selecting Will Cuylle, he had to make the jump to the AHL during the OHL-cancelled season. He played well but didn’t impact the play too much. He returned to the OHL as the captain of the Windsor Spitfires in 2021-22, putting up an 80-point performance and adding another 31 points in the playoffs. That was enough for the Rangers who brought him back up to the Hartford Wolf Pack where he’s been the team’s top scorer. Cuylle has an excellent shot and loves to make things happen, always seeming to get involved in the play. He’s a strong player that knows how to use his strength, which should help him become an impactful third liner in the NHL. He’s seen some games this season and shouldn’t be too far off now.

4. Matthew Robertson

Drafted 49th overall in the 2019 NHL Draft, Matthew Robertson has always been a consistent, reliable defender. His development has then followed suit, steadily rising since his time with the Edmonton Oil Kings in the WHL. His production steadily rose, and the Ranger bet on that continuing when they called his name. In 2021-22, he made the jump to the AHL that steady trend upwards has continued. The question will be how high he can continue to rise or where he flattens out. A sturdy defender who moves well, especially for a 6-foot-4 player. He can chip in offensively, showing that he knows when to creep up into the play in the offensive zone. He keeps an active stick and does well at breaking plays up. There isn’t anything that screams NHL, but his lack of glaring holes is interesting as well. Unless he surprises, he’s likely en route to a role as a depth defender.

5. Adam Sykora

One of many exciting Slovak prospects in the 2022 NHL Draft, the Rangers called Adam Sykora’s name 63rd overall. He had spent the better part of the past two seasons with HK Nitra in the top Slovak professional league and remained there this season, steadily rising his stock each season. His 2021-22 season also impressed at the international level, dressing for Slovakia in the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, D1A Under-18s, World Juniors, and the World Championships. Sykora is a hard-working prospect, who you can never seem to count out of a play. His hands also stand out, as he seems to catch every puck that comes near him. He’s a player that you could plug anywhere into the lineup, in any situation, and you’d be more than happy with his play. He likely carves out a comfortable role for himself as a third liner but could outperform that given his drive.

6. Dylan Garand

It seems to be a quiet fact that Dylan Garand is one of the top goaltending prospects out there right now. After a successful WHL career capped off by a dominant final season that saw him win WHL and GHL Goaltender of the Year, he’s now made the jump to the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack. A quick glance at his numbers would make it seem like he’s been struggling to adjust, but if you watch him you wouldn’t think that’s the case. He’s an athletic netminder that plays a great technical game, and his positioning is usually excellent. Garand is a calm presence behind a group of players that love his attitude and love playing in front of him, and that’s something that will influence how he progresses. As with most goalies, there’s no rush here and the Rangers can be patient with him in the AHL.

7. Bryce McConnell-Barker

Bryce McConnell-Barker headed into his OHL rookie campaign only to have the entire season shut down due to the pandemic. That impact on his development was big, losing a crucial year of development. He came into 2021-22, his new rookie season as well as his draft year, and had to get back up to speed. He had a good season but didn’t overly impress and went from a prospect once considered a first rounder to being selected 97th overall. This season, however, he was named team captain and took a massive step forward. The Rangers noticed this, signing him to his entry-level deal. He has a good wrist shot and seems to play a very smart, relatively mistake-free game. There’s nothing elite to his game that will carry him forward, but his consistency could see him rise to a bottom-six or depth piece.

8. Brett Berard

The players that never quit, always battle hard and seem to be involved in every play seem to make it more often than not, and Brett Berard may just fall into that category. After being drafted 134th overall in 2020 from the USNTDP, the winger moved to Providence College in the NCAA. It took him a season to adjust, but he got very comfortable in 2021-22, being named to the Hockey East Third All-Star Team. His production dipped a bit in 2022-23, but the Rangers saw enough, signing him to his first NHL contract and bringing him up to the AHL. He’s on the smaller side at 5-foot-9, but he always has his foot on the gas and has a deceptive amount of skill. His small-area game and ability to win puck battles stands out, as he always seems to end up with the puck. Look for him to carve out a bottom-six role for himself.

9. Ryder Korczak

Selected 75th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, Ryder Korczak seemed like he was going to steal an AHL roster spot to start the year but couldn’t find his footing and was ultimately sent back to the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors where he had a very strong season. In likely his last season in the league, he stood out as a leader on the team while having great production. His shot really took a step forward this season, as he looked much more comfortable shooting rather than his usual tendency to pass the puck. He does well at driving the play into the offensive zone and found success on the power play this season. His ceiling isn’t overly high and probably ends up as a depth forward but could be a player always in the conversation to earn a spot at the start of the season.

10. Will Lockwood

It’s been a long road for Will Lockwood who was drafted way back in 2016, 64th overall by the Vancouver Canucks. At the time, he was a good player on the USNTDP and was poised to make the jump to the University of Michigan. He made that jump and spent four seasons with the Wolverines, earning the “C” in his final year. In 2020-21, he jumped to the AHL, where he seemed to adjust fairly well to the new league, even earning a couple of games at the NHL level. That’s stuck for the next two seasons as well, bouncing between the leagues, before the Canucks decided to move on and sent him to the Rangers. He’s playing some excellent hockey with the Hartford Wolf Pack as a speedy, physical winger. If he keeps it up, he may just earn his first look with the Rangers. However, at this point, this is likely his ceiling.

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 20 Prospects

Sun, 18 Sep 2022 19:45:27 +0000

BOSTON, MA - MAY 08: New York Rangers left wing Vitali Kravtsov (74) looks to pass during a game between the Boston Bruins and the New York Rangers on May 8, 2021, at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Fred Kfoury III/Icon Sportswire)

1 - Vitali Kravtsov RW

It has now been four years since Vitaly Kravtsov was drafted 9th overall by the Rangers, but despite the elite skills and skating talent that he possesses, he is still mostly thought of as the player who has gone back and forth between the KHL and the Rangers organization. Last season was no exception, as after Kravtsov was sent down to the AHL and refused to report, he was once again loaned back to his KHL home team of Traktor. When he finally arrived back in Russia, he needed some time to shake off the rust and start performing consistently, but once he did, he enjoyed a fine season. That said, considering Kravtsov’s elite skill and skating ability, being just good and not great on this level in his draft+4 season is underwhelming, even keeping in mind that players of his ilk often take a bit longer to develop. He has not yet convinced anyone that he is ready for a full-time job in the NHL and his frequent friction with the Rangers’ organization actually left many surprised that he extended his NHL contract with the club. While we still believe in the player and his talent, and hope that he will finally arrive in the NHL, ascending to the top six attacking role his talent demands, we are less willing to put our money down on the proposition. Tread carefully. - VF

2 - Brennan Othmann LW

The 16th overall selection in the 2021 NHL Draft, Brennan Othmann is looking like he is going to become a fan favourite for the Rangers, consistently being a pest to play against while still being an offensive threat with his dangerous shot. There aren’t many players that have the ability to get under the skin of opponents as much as Othmann does. He plays an aggressive style game, consistently having a high motor and using great physicality, making it very difficult to play against. The former 2nd overall selection in the 2019 OHL Draft had a successful rookie year, finishing with 33 points (17G,16A) in 55 games. During the 2020-2021 season while the OHL was shutdown due to Covid-19, Othmann made the trip to Europe like some others and played in the Swiss League, producing 16 points (7G,9A) in 34 games. Othmann also got the opportunity to play in the U18 World Championship. In the 2021-2022 season, Othmann had a breakout season, producing 97 points (50G,47A) in 66 games, which was 7th in the league in points, 2nd in the league in goals, and 1st on the team in points and goals. That same year, he also played in the U20 World Junior Championship. Othman’s best assets are his shooting and competitiveness. His shot is a threat from almost anywhere in the offensive zone. The release is quick and deceptive, and the shot is hard and accurate, able to find small holes that others can’t. Not only is Othmann very effective offensively, but he’s also strong defensively and punishes opponents with physicality, never taking a shift off. Going into the 2022-2023 season, Othmann will once again be a premier player and be among the top goal scorers in the league. - DK

3 - Nils Lundkvist D

The hype surrounding Lundkvist as he started his North American pro career last year had reached astronomical levels. He was coming off two terrific years in the SHL, including being named the top Swedish defender in Sweden. The expectation was that he would walk right into a prominent NHL role. While he did split time between the Rangers and Hartford (AHL), there were more struggles than standout moments. Part of that had to do with usage, especially at the NHL level. Part of it had to do with Lundkvist struggling to adapt to the size and strength of NHL forwards. Someone who consistently activated offensively and took chances with the puck in Sweden, looked to be lacking in confidence to do so in the NHL. The great news is that Lundkvist finished the year on a very bright note in the AHL, finally showing off his ability to impact the game offensively. He has a wicked point shot, moves the puck quickly and effectively, is skilled enough to create time and space, and, as mentioned, is aggressive when jumping up into the play to create scoring chances. So, what happens this coming season? The Rangers could appear to prefer Zac Jones and Braden Schneider over Lundkvist at this point, based on usage, but training camp will settle that. As far as we’re concerned, the battle is on even ground and it would be shocking to see Lundkvist held out of the NHL this year, given his higher upside compared to Jones and Schneider. One lukewarm year is not enough to sour us on his potential to be a prominent offensive defender at the NHL level. - BO

4 - Zac Jones D

In 2021, Jones went right from winning a National Championship with UMass (NCAA) to the New York Rangers and it looked like he could never spend a minute in the AHL after a strong debut. However, Jones spent more time in the AHL last year than he did in the NHL thanks to the depth of the Rangers blueline. Even this coming season, he is not guaranteed to be an NHL player as he competes with New York’s other talented young defenders for playing time. Jones is a natural offensive defender who can use his strong four-way mobility and puck skill to create offense. He walks the offensive blueline with confidence and his quick feet really help him to break down coverage. Jones also makes a strong exit pass, clearing his own zone quickly and efficiently. His quickness is an asset in the defensive end too, although he could undoubtedly stand to bulk up to be more effective defending traffic and to help him win more puck battles. He has the potential to be a top four powerplay quarterback and could realize that potential as early as next season. With so many talented young defenders ready to take spots, at some point something will have to give and one of them may be used as a trade chip to help the Rangers improve during this season. - BO

5 - Matthew Robertson D

Yes, you guessed it, another potentially NHL-ready defender for the New York Rangers. A former second round pick, Robertson is coming off of his first pro season with Hartford. The 6’4 defender is far from an offensive standout, but his combination of size, mobility, and physicality makes him a likely bet to be an NHL defender in some capacity. His ability to shut down transitional attacks and defend pace are standout qualities, in a similar way to Braden Schneider who has already carved out a niche with the Rangers. Robertson also can also use his length and quickness to disrupt space in the defensive zone, closing quickly to prevent opposing forwards from sustaining pressure. There is room for improvement in his decision making with the puck and he probably has more offensive potential than he showed as a first-year pro, but he could still move quickly through the system given his profile. Depending on the kind of role available on New York’s blueline (especially given a potential injury), Robertson may even be given a look earlier than some of the puck movers they have in the system. From an upside standpoint, Robertson could be viewed as a potential partner for the likes of Lundkvist and/or Jones in the future and he could slot in anywhere from #4-6 in the lineup. - BO

6 -Will Cuylle LW

Returning to the OHL this year, after playing out the pandemic in the AHL, Cuylle was fantastic for the Windsor Spitfires. He captained them to a Western Conference championship and finished tied for sixth in the OHL with 43 goals. He developed great chemistry with Dallas Stars prospect and Red Tilson winner Wyatt Johnston. The power forward’s game has come a long way since being drafted. His skating has improved, especially his explosiveness. His engagement level without the puck has become more consistent as he has become a quality defensive forward. His finishing ability has become more refined as his release has improved to match his already heavy wrist shot. In a lot of ways, Cuylle is the perfect complementary player for the middle six given his well-rounded game, ability to clear space, and finishing touch. He will play out his “real” first season in the AHL this coming season and should be able to make an immediate impact as a middle six player and powerplay option. After continuing to improve his skating, Cuylle could be ready for a full-time role with the Rangers within a few seasons. - BO

7 - Adam Sykora RW

Sýkora made probably the biggest step forward out of all Slovak prospects in his draft year. Before the season, he wasn´t even a lock to be drafted, yet he worked his way up to the second round. His performance at the 2022 Men’s World Championship was particularly impressive. As the youngest player in the tournament, he scored twice and added an assist, playing a key role for the Slovak team. On the contrary, his World Juniors performance was by no means as impressive, which included a late ejection during the final match against Finland. The World Juniors displayed the main weaknesses of the Rangers´ first selection in the 2022 Entry Draft. Sýkora isn´t a guy who can create a lot of offense. He is a fast skater, a fantastic forechecker who makes the defense´s life miserable, and his compete level is great, but he will never be a primary offensive threat. He likes to play aggressively and finishes his checks despite his smallish figure. The Slovak two-way winger is a great penalty kill option. He enjoys blocking shots and fighting for the puck, which makes him a unique prospect. All in all, he won´t be a top-six option in the NHL, but he is the kind of a bottom-six player who is extremely valuable for his team. He will spend the next season with Nitra in Slovak top tier league. - MD

8 - Bryce McConnell-Barker C

The 97th overall selection in the 2022 NHL Draft, Bryce McConnell-Barker was able to make the most while adapting into a 3rd line role on a stacked Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds team. The former 4th overall selection in the 2020 OHL Draft previously had won the 2019-2020 Alliance Hockey player of the year, but like many others, he wasn’t able to showcase himself right away, being forced to wait due to the Covid-19 shutdown. During the 2020-2021 season, McConnell-Barker was able to produce 49 points (23G,26A) in 68 games, which was 5th on his team in points, 4th on his team in goals, and also 7th in the leagues for points by a rookie. McConnell-Barker’s best assets are his competitiveness and hockey sense. There weren’t many times when watching McConnell-Barker that you questioned his competitiveness. Every single battle for the puck, even if he didn’t win, he was consistently giving his all. He’s very aggressive and uses his active stick and strength to quickly retrieve the puck and protect it from opponents, being able to do the dirty work on his line, making it easy to play with. McConnell-Barker also displays smart hockey sense consistently, being able to adapt to different roles while still being effective. One thing that stood out for him was how well he compliments a line. Not needing to have the puck and still find ways to contribute. He makes smart decisions without the puck and seems to always be in the right spot at the right time. Going into the 2022-2023 season, McConnell-Barker will most likely be elevated up in the lineup, giving him more ice time and opportunities on special teams. You could expect a rise in point production as well. - DK

9 - Brett Berard LW

As a fifth-round pick at the 2020 draft, many would be forgiven for not knowing much about Brett Berard. As a five-foot-nine winger without an easily identifiable standout offensive tool, many would be forgiven for believing that Berard is a long shot to make the NHL. But Berard has as good of a chance to make the NHL as any Rangers prospect, and after a point-per-game sophomore NCAA season, more and more people are taking notice. Speaking conventionally, Berard does not have a standout offensive tool, a weapon he can lean on when all else fails in order to create offense. He’s a good skater, and he’s fast enough to survive at his five-foot-nine size, but he’s not a burner and his speed won’t be what carries him to NHL success. Similarly, Berard’s shot is good, but he won’t be a long-distance scorer at higher levels. The thing that separates Berard more than anything else isn’t something that many would typically call a valuable offensive tool, but it is something that could carry Berard to professional success nonetheless: it’s his bravery. Berard isn’t a big player, but any player who has the misfortune of holding onto a puck along the boards that Berard wants won’t be able to tell. Berard willingly and frequently engages in the physical side of the game and can even go a bit too far in his attempts to attack the opposition. Berard is relentless in how he approaches the game, always looking to find any possible way to gain an upper hand on opponents. Berard’s size and skill combination puts a damper on his upside, but he still has a strong chance to rise through the pro ranks and find his way onto an NHL roster as the sort of “heart-and-soul” bottom-six player who brings work ethic, physicality, and some flashes of offensive skill to the table. - EH

10 - Dylan Garand G

If you could describe Garand in just one word it would have to be "steady." The 2020 New York Rangers 4th-rounder (103rd overall) isn't the biggest, fastest or most naturally athletic goaltender, but what he does possess is superb mental makeup. Named the WHL Scholastic Player of the Year in 2020, his intelligence is on display on a nightly basis, as his technique, positioning, and play-tracking are all quite advanced for a goalie of his age. He is also a very consistent and focused netminder, having won the starting job in Kamloops as a 17-year-old and comfortably locking it down for the following two seasons, maintaining a high save percentage and racking up wins the entire time. His ability to handle pressure is additionally impressive, as evidenced by his stellar run to the semifinals in the 2022 WHL playoffs and then by backstopping Canada to a gold medal at this past summer's World Juniors, winning the crease ahead of Detroit Red Wings 1st-rounder Sebastian Cossa and never relinquishing it. That hard-fought gold medal capped off a memorable calendar year that also saw him named as the CHL Goaltender of the Year. He has already signed his entry-level contract with the Rangers and could turn pro with the Hartford Wolf Pack for 2022-23 but will surely also feel the draw to stay in junior for his overage season as his Blazers club will be hosting the 2023 Memorial Cup. At his current trajectory he seems likely to become at least an NHL backup in due time. - DN

11 - Ryder Korczak

The Rangers have some options with Korczak this year. He could play in the AHL with Hartford or return to Moose Jaw for an overage year in the WHL. Korczak is a skilled and agile playmaker, but he will need to prove that he can compete against men physically.

12 - Bobby Trivigno

Trivigno, a recent free agent signing by the Rangers, was a four-year standout at UMass. He may not be big, but he is skilled and pesky, a combination which gives him a wide range of outcomes as a pro.

13 - Karl Henriksson

How the former second rounder handles the transition to Hartford this season remains to be seen. The undersized center is a strong two-way presence, but he had yet to find confidence in his ability to create while playing in the SHL.

14 - Lauri Pajuniemi

A former standout in Liiga, Pajuniemi was only OK in his first year in the AHL. His best quality is his shot, but he needs to work consistently to get himself opportunities to utilize it. Adding strength and quickness this offseason was a must.

15 - Patrick Khodorenko

Khodorenko was a four-year standout at Michigan State before turning pro two seasons ago. His upside may not be significant, but there is a path for him to become a quality bottom six center who can kill penalties.

16 - Hunter Skinner

What the Rangers have in Skinner remains to be seen. The big defender’s athletic tools are improving and he can play physical and blast the puck. How it all comes together is still a mystery.

17 - Jayden Grubbe

Returning from a knee injury suffered in his draft year, Grubbe was pushed down the depth chart in Red Deer. The physical two-way power center should be in line for more responsibility on a stronger Rebels team this season. If his skating can show growth, he could be a potential shutdown, third line center.

18 - Hugo Ollas

Ollas swallows up the crease with his 6’7 frame and was fantastic in his freshman year at Merrimack. He will look to follow that up this season by stealing away the starter’s job and establishing himself as one of the better netminders in the NCAA.

19 - Austin Rueschhoff

The 6’7, 230lbs winger can be a load to handle down low for opposing defenders and he shows great potential as an impactful bottom six player for the Rangers.

20 - Tim Gettinger

This year might be the final kick at the can for Gettinger in the Rangers system. The big winger still struggles with his consistency but was given another contract by New York to see if he can crack the Rangers roster full time in a fourth line role.

2022 NHL DRAFT MIDSEASON RANKING: TOP 100 PLAYER PROFILES WITH VIDEO – #61 thru #70

Brock Otten — Sat, 19 Feb 2022 16:15:57 +0000

In case you missed it, we updated our 2022 NHL Draft rankings recently. You can find that here. Shane Wright still headlines the list but the gap is unquestionably closing as other candidates elevate their play.

With this piece our intention is to briefly introduce you to each of the players that fill out the rest of the Top 100 (ranked 50-100), after previously looking at the Top 50. Below you will find a short summary of their games in addition to a top highlight. In the coming months you will see in-depth scouting reports published by our regional scouts on each of these players (like this one on Shane Wright).

FRISCO, TX USA - APRIL 29: Russia's Sergei Ivanov #29 and Arseni Koromyslov #7 defend during preliminary round action against Germany at the 2021 IIHF Ice Hockey U18 World Championship at Comerica Center on April 29, 2021 in Frisco, TX USA. (Photo by Chris Tanouye/HHOF-IIHF Images)

Arseni Koromyslov - Defense - SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)

A late born ‘03, Koromyslov has long been on the scouting radar since debuting in the MHL at the age of 15. A 6’3, smooth skating defender, Koromyslov has evolved his game to be a more effective defensive player over the last few years, especially when it comes to defending pace and counter attacks. He takes away time and space really well and definitely projects as someone who can make a difference in the defensive end at the NHL level. However, his offensive production has not really taken that next step forward this year despite possessing the hands and creativity to play aggressively and to play deep in the offensive zone. Has his development stagnated? What is the disconnect here? Either way, his combination of mobility and size will be attractive, and all eyes will be on him to close out the year strongly.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-61-arseniy_koromyslov_-_1st_period_26_58_-_27_10.mp4

Jack Hughes - Center - Northeastern (NCAA)

The jokes have been fast and furious the last few years regarding Hughes, no relation to the other Hughes family (Jack, Quinn, and Luke) which is quickly becoming hockey royalty. Instead, Jack is the son of Kent Hughes, the newly named general manager of the Montreal Canadiens. This Jack Hughes is a dynamic and intelligent playmaker who is having a solid freshman season at Northeastern. He loves to attack the offensive zone using his mohawk (10 to 2) stride, showing an ability to keep the puck on a string as he moves in and out of traffic. He lacks the strength to be a consistent contributor away from the puck at the NCAA level right now, but he does generally have a high work rate and should improve into more of a well-rounded player as he gains strength. Our ranking of him is definitely lower than some of our contemporaries. The main reason is his reliance on mohawking to generate off the rush, which has not had a strong track record of transitioning well to the NHL (or even AHL) level. Ask Jeremy Bracco (or Antonio Stranges last year).

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-62-jack_hughes_-_3rd_period_30_30_-_30_42.mp4

Lane Hutson - Defense - USNDP (USHL)

Hutson is viewed in a similar light to his program teammate Tyler Duke. He is not big, but his game is highly efficient. Hutson is a beautiful skater, especially in terms of his ability to build speed out of pivots. This helps him to escape the defensive zone, even under duress. It also helps him quarterback the powerplay effectively and move the puck along the blueline. Our video scouting team absolutely loves Hutson and believes that he has tremendous offensive upside as he gains confidence in his ability to carry the puck and play more aggressively. That said, there are times where he is overwhelmed in the defensive zone. He is a better skater than Duke, but his physical tenacity and his effectiveness in defending the net front is not at the same level. This begs the question, is Hutson limited to being more a specialized defender at the next level who needs to be sheltered? Or is there a definitive top four upside as his defensive game (and body) matures?

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-63-lane_hutson_-_2nd_period_14_10_-_14_24.mp4

Gavin Hayes - Wing - Flint Firebirds (OHL)

It has been a bit of a rollercoaster year for Hayes thus far. He had a really strong showing at the Hlinka/Gretzky for the U.S., excelling as a physical attacker and generator off the rush. However, when the OHL season started, he found himself buried on the fourth line (or the press box) in Flint. He eventually turned things around and earned more playing time, even getting back on to the top powerplay unit. However, when Flint got Ethan Keppen back from the AHL recently, his ice time was once again reduced. One thing Hayes has had trouble doing this year is blending his physicality/energy with his ability to be a dangerous offensive player. When he has been scoring, he has played a more passive game without the puck. When he has not been scoring, he has been bringing physicality and excelling in all three zones. The merger of the two to be a true difference maker has not yet happened, despite the expectation that it would (and it did at the Hlinka/Gretzky).

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-64-gavin_hayes_-_1st_period_33_43_-_33_55.mp4

Otto Salin - Defense - HIFK (Fin-Liiga)

Injuries have been a problem for this promising, right shot, offensive defender this season. However, he has returned recently after a long lay-off and is playing on HIFK’s third pair and on the powerplay. A strong skater, Salin can be an impactful puck mover because of how efficiently he is able to start the breakout. His vision is definitely his best asset, and it is rare to find a right shot defender with the kind of mobility and offensive awareness that Salin possesses. There are a few questions, likely because of his lack of playing time this year. The first is, how skilled and creative is Salin? Can he be a powerplay quarterback at the NHL level? The second is, what is Salin’s ceiling as a defensive player? Can he improve his defensive zone play to the point where he would be classified as a strong two-way defender? He will be a player to watch down the stretch as he is finally back to playing again. We should get a better read on his progression by the time the U18’s roll around.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-65-otto_salin_-_3rd_period_17_3_-_17_16.mp4

Hunter Haight - Center - Barrie Colts (OHL)

Haight is one of the best examples of what the year off did to the development of some players in Ontario. He had a terrific summer camp with Hockey Canada, excelling in the U18/U20 blended games. However, his start to his OHL career has been rocky. His inconsistent play has led to another young star, Beau Jelsma, passing him on the team’s depth chart. Haight is still one of the most individually skilled and creative players in this Ontario age group. In fact, he’s actually a pretty well-rounded player too, who shows well on both sides of the puck when he is dialed in. The issue right now stems from a lack of strength, confidence, and the fact that his skating does not look quite as strong as it did as a U16 player. Haight is the ultimate home run swing in the middle rounds because of the upside he possesses. He has not played his best this year, but let’s see how he closes the year and if his game shows development down the stretch.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-66-hunter_haight_-_2nd_period_6_14_-_6_26.mp4

Antonin Verreault - Wing - Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL)

A highly intelligent and creative playmaker, Verreault has not quite elevated his game the way many expected he would this year. The QMJHL’s rookie of the year last season was arguably one of the best ‘04’s in the CHL last year. Verreault is at his best in the offensive zone. He works in and around traffic with strong small area quickness and agility and is able to prolong possession with his elusiveness. His poise and vision with the puck are strengths as he operates surgically from the outside. Herein lies the issue though. At 5’9, Verreault is not big, and the one criticism of his game is that he does not find success inside as consistently as he needs to. Be it a need to alter his mindset. Be it a need to add strength on the puck. Verreault can be kept to the perimeter. However, he does possess a high upside as an offensive player because of his intelligence and creativity in the offensive end. Our scouts will be looking for him to truly step up and elevate his game with the QMJHL starting back up in order to keep his spot in the Top 75.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-67-antonin_verreault_-_2nd_period_4_7_-_4_19.mp4

Cameron Lund - Wing/Center - Green Bay Gambles (USHL)

Playing in his first season in the USHL, Lund has been a standout for Green Bay, especially lately. The Northeastern commit is a well-rounded player. He looks strong as a transitional attacker because of his power and puck protection ability. However, he also drives the net hard and plays a power game, looking to use his 6’2 frame physically to gain leverage near the crease and in the corners. It is really easy to see him becoming a quality, long time pro with his versatile skill set. Is the upside significant? Probably not. But as Lund fills out, you could easily see him becoming a really solid two-way player and an asset down low. It should also be mentioned that Lund was one of the U.S.’ best players at the Hlinka/Gretzky last summer, so his progression has been consistent since leaving Cushing Academy.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-68-cameron_lund_-_2nd_period_10_35_-_10_48.mp4

Bryce McConnell-Barker - Center/Wing - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)

McConnell-Barker is a former high pick in the OHL draft who has had a bit of a difficult time finding his footing thus far. He has been moved up and down the Greyhounds’ lineup and has shifted between the middle and wing. There have been moments where he has looked great, but consistency has certainly been an issue, much like Hunter Haight ranked slightly ahead of him. Best case scenario, McConnell-Barker develops into a solid two-way, goal scoring center who can push the pace with his speed and play in all situations. He is quick. He has good size. His compete level in all three zones is generally solid. He has a heavy shot. It is about putting all these pieces together. The major concern is whether McConnell-Barker has enough skill to be a play driver or consistent finisher. He has had some trouble finishing off plays in tight this year. Additionally, given his high-end shot, he needs to find a way to slip into soft spots in coverage more consistently to get himself good looks. In a lot of ways, he and Ludwinski are similar in that the shell of an impactful two-way forward is there, but the production has been inconsistent due to possible skill limitations.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-69-bryce_mcconnell-barker_-_3rd_period_16_56_-_17_11.mp4

Brennan Ali - Center - Avon Old Farms (USHS - PREP)

Inside our top 50, we had Sam Rinzel as the top ranked player from the Minnesota high school ranks this year. Well Brennan Ali is the top ranked prep player from the East coast. Ali is a highly competitive pivot who loves to push and attack the middle. He is consistently dialed in physically and his work rate is extremely high, especially on the forecheck and down low. This is a player who loves to get under the skin of the opposition. While he’s played primarily with Avon Old Farms, he has looked great in limited action with Lincoln (USHL) and in a few guest appearances with the US U18 team. The Notre Dame commit probably does not have the upside of a top six player, but his skating and physicality combination makes him a fun player to watch. If his puck skill and finishing ability can improve through his college career, Ali could have a long career as a Brandon Dubinsky type.

https://www.mckeenshockey.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Top-100-70-brennan_ali_-_3rd_period_17_54_-_18_7.mp4

2022 NHLDRAFT: MCKEEN’S MID-SEASON RANKING – TOP 100

Brock Otten — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 20:59:29 +0000

RED DEER, ALBERTA - DECEMBER 26: USA vs Slovakia preliminary round action at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship at WP Centrium on December 26, 2021 in Red Deer, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Matt Zambonin/HHOF-IIHF Images)

A new year means a new draft ranking at McKeen’s Hockey, as we expand our list at mid-season to a Top 100. Back in mid-November, we released our preliminary ranking, a top 32, so this serves not only as an update, but an expansion too.

Like many, we were disappointed with the abrupt ending of the World Junior Championships, not just because it robbed us of some terrific hockey, but because it prevented a high-quality look at some of the best talents in this draft year. While a poor showing at the World Juniors is often dismissed, a strong showing can really help elevate a player’s standing. Ultimately, the decision to stop the tournament was the correct one, given the circumstances, however, hopefully the World Under 18’s can occur in Germany as planned in April.

At this point Kingston Frontenacs center and former CHL exceptional status player Shane Wright remains at the top of our rankings, however the gap is admittedly closing between him and some of the other players inside of our top five. Defenseman Simon Nemec is having a historically good season in the Slovak men’s league and will play for Slovakia at the Olympics. Center Logan Cooley is proving to be a dynamic two-way threat and is fresh off a terrific performance at the Biosteel All American Game. Center Matthew Savoie of the Winnipeg Ice continues to lead the WHL in scoring on the top ranked team in the Canadian Hockey League. A year ago, it was unfathomable to imagine anyone else but Wright being selected first overall. That concept is not as far-fetched today. Without question, Wright will need to pick up his play in the second half to withstand his competitors.

Looking specifically at those ranked inside our first round (top 32), the positional breakdown is as follows: 10 defenders, 22 forwards, and zero goaltenders. In fact, we do not have a single goaltender ranked inside the first two rounds. Tyler Brennan and Topias Leinonen are our top goaltenders, ranked 84th and 87th, respectively. The quality and depth of goaltenders available this year may be the worst that we have ever seen as a scouting staff.

Regionally, the breakdown is as follows: ten players from the CHL, seven players from the USHL (more specifically the NTDP), four players in Sweden, four players in Russia, three players in Finland, two players in Slovakia, and two players in Czechia. The U.S. National Development program is extremely well represented with ten players inside of our first two rounds.

This top 100 was formed in consultation with our regional scouts and our video scouting team. Now that we have our midseason list formed, look for our annual, in-depth individual scouting reports to start being published in the very near future.

Shane Wright of the KIngston Frontenacs. Photo by Robert Lefebvre/OHL Images.

RANK	PLAYER	POS	TEAM	HT/WT	DOB	GP-G-A-PTS
1	Shane Wright	C	Kingston (OHL)	6-1/190	5-Jan-04	25-12-19-31
2	Simon Nemec	D	HK Nitra (Svk)	6-1/190	15-Feb-04	28-0-19-19
3	Matthew Savoie	C	Winnipeg (WHL)	5-9/180	1-Jan-04	35-19-34-53
4	Logan Cooley	C	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/180	4-May-04	25-15-20-35
5	Danila Yurov	RW	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	6-1/175	22-Dec-03	21-0-0-0
6	Joakim Kemell	RW	JyP (Fin-Liiga)	5-11/175	27-Apr-04	21-12-6-18
7	Juraj Slafkovsky	LW	TPS (Fin-Liiga)	6-4/225	30-Mar-04	20-1-3-4
8	Conor Geekie	C	Winnipeg (WHL)	6-4/205	5-May-04	35-11-27-38
9	Brad Lambert	C	JyP (Fin-Liiga)	6-0/180	19-Dec-03	24-2-4-6
10	Ivan Miroshnichenko	LW	Omskie Krylia (VHL)	6-1/185	4-Feb-04	30-9-6-15
11	David Jiricek	D	HC Plzen (Cze)	6-3/190	28-Nov-03	29-5-6-11
12	Filip Mesar	C	HK Poprad (Svk)	5-10/165	3-Jan-04	22-6-5-11
13	Pavel Mintyukov	D	Saginaw (OHL)	6-1/190	25-Nov-03	31-6-17-23
14	Denton Mateychuk	D	Moose Jaw (WHL)	5-11/190	12-Jul-04	35-7-24-31
15	Marco Kasper	C	Rogle BK (SHL)	6-1/185	8-Apr-04	27-4-2-6
16	Alexander Perevalov	LW	Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)	6-0/190	16-Apr-04	29-19-20-39
17	Seamus Casey	D	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/160	8-Jan-04	31-5-13-18
18	Frank Nazar	C	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/175	14-Jan-04	33-15-23-38
19	Noah Ostlund	C	Djurgardens J20 (Swe J20)	5-10/160	11-Mar-04	19-6-18-24
20	Cutter Gauthier	C	USN U18 (USDP)	6-2/190	19-Jan-04	33-20-12-32
21	Jonathan Lekkerimaki	C	Djurgardens J20 (Swe J20)	5-11/170	24-Jul-04	25-19-15-34
22	Tristan Luneau	D	Gatineau (QMJHL)	6-2/175	12-Jan-04	26-5-10-15
23	Nathan Gaucher	C	Quebec (QMJHL)	6-3/205	6-Nov-03	30-15-11-26
24	Ty Nelson	D	North Bay (OHL)	5-9/195	30-Mar-04	33-5-21-26
25	Vladimir Grudinin	D	Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL)	5-10/160	9-Dec-03	15-2-7-9
26	Owen Beck	C	Mississauga (OHL)	5-11/190	3-Feb-04	33-13-16-29
27	Simon Forsmark	D	Orebro (SHL)	6-2/195	17-Oct-03	22-0-1-1
28	Mats Lindgren	D	Kamloops (WHL)	5-11/175	26-Aug-04	34-2-19-21
29	Rutger McGroarty	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	6-1/205	30-Mar-04	27-15-17-32
30	Jiri Kulich	C	Karlovy Vary (Cze)	6-0/175	14-Apr-04	31-7-4-11
31	Isaac Howard	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/180	30-Mar-04	33-15-24-39
32	Jimmy Snuggerud	RW	USN U18 (USDP)	6-1/185	1-Jun-04	33-16-22-38
33	Filip Bystedt	C	Linkopings (SHL)	6-4/185	4-Feb-04	14-1-1-2
34	Brandon Lisowsky	LW	Saskatoon (WHL)	5-8/175	13-Apr-04	35-19-10-29
35	Jagger Firkus	RW	Moose Jaw (WHL)	5-10/155	29-Apr-04	38-23-21-44
36	Maveric Lamoureux	D	Drummondville (QMJHL)	6-7/195	13-Jan-04	30-3-8-11
37	Matthew Poitras	C	Guelph (OHL)	5-11/175	10-Mar-04	29-10-13-23
38	Adam Ingram	C	Youngstown (USHL)	6-2/165	14-Oct-03	27-16-20-36
39	Liam Ohgren	LW	Djurgardens (SHL)	6-0/185	28-Jan-04	21-1-1-2
40	Calle Odelius	D	Djurgardens J20 (Swe J20)	6-0/185	30-May-04	28-4-17-21
41	Sam Rinzel	D	Chaska (USHS-MN)	6-4/180	25-Jun-04	13-3-13-16
42	Ludwig Persson	LW	Frolunda J20 (Swe J20)	6-0/180	8-Oct-03	24-16-19-35
43	Artyom Duda	D	Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (Rus)	6-1/180	8-Apr-04	36-11-20-31
44	Jani Nyman	RW	KOOVEE (Fin-Mestis)	6-3/210	30-Jul-04	23-14-9-23
45	Matyas Sapovaliv	C	Saginaw (OHL)	6-3/180	12-Feb-04	31-10-16-26
46	Kevin Korchinski	D	Seattle (WHL)	6-1/185	21-Jun-04	32-4-24-28
47	Gleb Trikozov	RW	Omskie Yastreby (MHL)	6-1/185	12-Aug-04	17-9-8-17
48	David Goyette	C	Sudbury (OHL)	5-11/170	27-Mar-04	32-12-18-30
49	Owen Pickering	D	Swift Current (WHL)	6-3/180	27-Jan-04	34-6-15-21
50	Lian Bichsel	D	Leksands (SHL)	6-5/215	18-May-04	13-0-1-1
51	Paul Ludwinski	LW	Kingston (OHL)	5-11/175	23-Apr-04	28-6-13-19
52	Jordan Dumais	RW	Halifax (QMJHL)	5-8/165	15-Apr-04	30-16-31-47
53	Aleksanteri Kaskimaki	LW	HIFK (Fin U20)	6-0/185	6-Feb-04	22-15-14-29
54	Luca Del Bel Belluz	C	Mississauga (OHL)	6-1/180	10-Nov-03	33-18-27-45
55	Ryan Chesley	D	USN U18 (USDP)	6-0/195	27-Feb-04	32-2-5-7
56	Danny Zhilkin	C	Guelph (OHL)	6-2/185	19-Dec-03	27-10-14-24
57	Isaiah George	D	London (OHL)	6-0/195	15-Feb-04	29-1-9-10
58	Rieger Lorenz	LW	Okotoks (AJHL)	6-1/185	30-Mar-04	43-28-39-67
59	Tyler Duke	D	USN U18 (USDP)	5-8/180	19-Jul-04	27-1-7-8
60	Mattias Havelid	D	Linkopings (SHL)	5-9/170	1-Jan-04	12-0-0-0
61	Arseni Koromyslov	D	SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)	6-3/180	3-Nov-03	22-0-8-8
62	Jack Hughes 2	C	Northeastern (NCAA-HE)	6-0/165	2-Nov-03	22-5-4-9
63	Lane Hutson	D	USN U18 (USDP)	5-8/150	14-Feb-04	33-4-25-29
64	Gavin Hayes	RW	Flint (OHL)	6-1/175	14-May-04	30-8-9-17
65	Otto Salin	D	HIFK (Fin-Liiga)	5-11/185	7-Mar-04	5-0-1-1
66	Hunter Haight	C	Barrie (OHL)	5-10/175	4-Apr-04	24-8-6-14
67	Antonin Verreault	LW	Gatineau (QMJHL)	5-8/165	28-Jul-04	29-8-18-26
68	Cameron Lund	RW	Green Bay (USHL)	6-2/185	7-Jun-04	30-11-9-20
69	Bryce McConnell-Barker	C	Soo Greyhounds (OHL)	6-1/185	4-Jun-04	34-11-12-23
70	Brennan Ali	C	Lincoln (USHL)	6-1/195	9-Feb-04	2-0-0-0
71	David Spacek	D	Sherbrooke (QMJHL)	6-0/170	18-Feb-03	27-5-20-25
72	Angus Booth	D	Shawinigan (QMJHL)	6-0/175	27-Apr-04	30-1-20-21
73	Jake Livanavage	D	Chicago (USHL)	5-9/160	6-May-04	32-2-25-27
74	Markus Vidicek	C	Halifax (QMJHL)	5-10/160	21-Mar-04	30-9-18-27
75	Matthew Seminoff	RW	Kamloops (WHL)	5-10/160	27-Dec-03	30-15-18-33
76	Kasper Kulonummi	D	Jokerit (Fin U20)	6-0/175	1-Mar-04	25-2-16-18
77	Vinzenz Rohrer	RW	Ottawa (OHL)	5-10/160	9-Sep-04	30-9-14-23
78	Elias Salomonsson	D	Skelleftea J20 (Swe J20)	6-1/170	31-Aug-04	24-8-9-17
79	Liam Arnsby	C	North Bay (OHL)	5-10/180	20-Nov-03	32-8-10-18
80	Daniil Orlov	D	Sakhalinskiye Akuly (MHL)	6-2/180	21-Dec-03	44-8-18-26
81	Quinn Finley	LW	Madison (USHL)	6-0/170	8-Aug-04	14-5-5-10
82	Topi Ronni	C	Tappara (Fin U20)	6-1/180	5-May-04	21-7-11-18
83	Jordan Gustafson	C	Seattle (WHL)	5-11/180	20-Jan-04	29-13-18-31
84	Tyler Brennan	G	Prince George (WHL)	6-4/190	27-Sep-03	8-11-2, 3.34, .902
85	Cole Spicer	C	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/175	13-Jun-04	31-10-12-22
86	Ryan Greene	C	Green Bay (USHL)	6-1/175	21-Oct-03	28-10-16-26
87	Topias Leinonen	G	JyP (Fin U20)	6-4/215	19-Jul-04	17GP, 2.17, .919
88	Alexander Suzdalev	LW	HV 71 J20 (Swe J20)	6-2/175	5-Mar-04	31-11-22-33
89	Pano Fimis	C	Niagara (OHL)	5-10/175	17-Jun-04	27-5-14-19
90	Spencer Sova	D	Erie (OHL)	6-1/185	10-Jan-04	30-2-12-14
91	Yoan Loshing	C	Moncton (QMJHL)	5-9/160	29-Feb-04	19-8-5-13
92	Jack Devine	RW	Denver (NCHC)	5-11/175	1-Oct-03	19-2-12-14
93	Ruslan Gazizov	RW	London (OHL)	5-11/185	21-Jan-04	20-5-11-16
94	Jackson Dorrington	D	Des Moines (USHL)	6-2/190	13-Apr-04	27-3-7-10
95	Jorian Donovan	D	Hamilton (OHL)	6-1/180	5-Apr-04	31-3-9-12
96	Jere Lassila	C	JyP (Fin U20)	5-9/170	8-Mar-04	13-7-4-11
97	Tucker Robertson	C	Peterborough (OHL)	5-11/190	22-Jun-03	31-19-23-42
98	Noah Warren	D	Gatineau (QMJHL)	6-5/215	15-Jul-04	29-3-9-12
99	Zakary Lavoie	RW	Mississauga (OHL)	5-11/170	15-Mar-04	31-10-15-25
100	Boston Buckberger	D	Brooks (AJHL)	5-10/175	1-Jun-03	42-11-9-20

2022 NHLDRAFT: MCKEEN’S MID-SEASON RANKING – TOP 32

Brock Otten — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 20:58:52 +0000

Shane Wright of the KIngston Frontenacs. Photo by Robert Lefebvre/OHL Images.

RANK	PLAYER	POS	TEAM	HT/WT	DOB	GP-G-A-PTS
1	Shane Wright	C	Kingston (OHL)	6-1/190	5-Jan-04	25-12-19-31
2	Simon Nemec	D	HK Nitra (Svk)	6-1/190	15-Feb-04	28-0-19-19
3	Matthew Savoie	C	Winnipeg (WHL)	5-9/180	1-Jan-04	35-19-34-53
4	Logan Cooley	C	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/180	4-May-04	25-15-20-35
5	Danila Yurov	RW	Metallurg Magnitogorsk (KHL)	6-1/175	22-Dec-03	21-0-0-0
6	Joakim Kemell	RW	JyP (Fin-Liiga)	5-11/175	27-Apr-04	21-12-6-18
7	Juraj Slafkovsky	LW	TPS (Fin-Liiga)	6-4/225	30-Mar-04	20-1-3-4
8	Conor Geekie	C	Winnipeg (WHL)	6-4/205	5-May-04	35-11-27-38
9	Brad Lambert	C	JyP (Fin-Liiga)	6-0/180	19-Dec-03	24-2-4-6
10	Ivan Miroshnichenko	LW	Omskie Krylia (VHL)	6-1/185	4-Feb-04	30-9-6-15
11	David Jiricek	D	HC Plzen (Cze)	6-3/190	28-Nov-03	29-5-6-11
12	Filip Mesar	C	HK Poprad (Svk)	5-10/165	3-Jan-04	22-6-5-11
13	Pavel Mintyukov	D	Saginaw (OHL)	6-1/190	25-Nov-03	31-6-17-23
14	Denton Mateychuk	D	Moose Jaw (WHL)	5-11/190	12-Jul-04	35-7-24-31
15	Marco Kasper	C	Rogle BK (SHL)	6-1/185	8-Apr-04	27-4-2-6
16	Alexander Perevalov	LW	Loko Yaroslavl (MHL)	6-0/190	16-Apr-04	29-19-20-39
17	Seamus Casey	D	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/160	8-Jan-04	31-5-13-18
18	Frank Nazar	C	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/175	14-Jan-04	33-15-23-38
19	Noah Ostlund	C	Djurgardens J20 (Swe J20)	5-10/160	11-Mar-04	19-6-18-24
20	Cutter Gauthier	C	USN U18 (USDP)	6-2/190	19-Jan-04	33-20-12-32
21	Jonathan Lekkerimaki	C	Djurgardens J20 (Swe J20)	5-11/170	24-Jul-04	25-19-15-34
22	Tristan Luneau	D	Gatineau (QMJHL)	6-2/175	12-Jan-04	26-5-10-15
23	Nathan Gaucher	C	Quebec (QMJHL)	6-3/205	6-Nov-03	30-15-11-26
24	Ty Nelson	D	North Bay (OHL)	5-9/195	30-Mar-04	33-5-21-26
25	Vladimir Grudinin	D	Krasnaya Armiya Moskva (MHL)	5-10/160	9-Dec-03	15-2-7-9
26	Owen Beck	C	Mississauga (OHL)	5-11/190	3-Feb-04	33-13-16-29
27	Simon Forsmark	D	Orebro (SHL)	6-2/195	17-Oct-03	22-0-1-1
28	Mats Lindgren	D	Kamloops (WHL)	5-11/175	26-Aug-04	34-2-19-21
29	Rutger McGroarty	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	6-1/205	30-Mar-04	27-15-17-32
30	Jiri Kulich	C	Karlovy Vary (Cze)	6-0/175	14-Apr-04	31-7-4-11
31	Isaac Howard	LW	USN U18 (USDP)	5-10/180	30-Mar-04	33-15-24-39
32	Jimmy Snuggerud	RW	USN U18 (USDP)	6-1/185	1-Jun-04	33-16-22-38

Bryce McConnell-Barker – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2024-25 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #23

New York Rangers Top-15 Prospects

1. Gabe Perreault

2. Brennan Othmann

3. EJ Emery

4. Brett Berard

5. Adam Sykora

6. Dylan Garand

7. Noah Laba

8. Matthew Robertson

9. Drew Fortescue

10. Bryce McConnell-Barker

11. Matthew Rempe

12. Ryder Korczak

13. Dylan Roobroeck

14. Jaroslav Chmelar

15. Raoul Boilard

MCKEEN’S 2024 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #18 New York Rangers – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

1. Gabe Perreault, RW, Boston College (NCAA)

2. Brennan Othmann, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

3. Matthew Robertson, D, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

4. Brett Berard, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

5. Adam Sykora, RW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

6. Bryce McConnell-Barker, C, Soo Greyhounds (OHL)

7. Dylan Garand, G, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

8. Drew Fortescue, D, Boston College (NCAA)

9. Noah Laba, C, Colorado College (NCAA)

10. Matthew Rempe, C, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

MCKEEN’S 2023-24 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 20 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #23

Top 20 New York Rangers Prospects

1. Brennan Othmann

2. Zac Jones

3. Gabe Perreault

4. Will Cuylle

5. Matthew Robertson

6. Adam Sykora

7. Dylan Garand

8. Bryce McConnell-Barker

9. Brett Berard

10. Ryder Korczak

11. Ty Emberson

12. Drew Fortescue

13. Noah Laba

14. Bobby Trivigno

15. Karl Henriksson

16. Maxim Barbashev

17. Jaroslav Chmelar

18. Brandon Scanlin

19. Adam Edstrom

20. Lauri Pajuniemi

MCKEEN’S 2023 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #22 New York Rangers

Prospect System Ranking – 22nd (20th last year)

MCKEEN’S 2022-23 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 20 Prospects

2022 NHL DRAFT MIDSEASON RANKING: TOP 100 PLAYER PROFILES WITH VIDEO – #61 thru #70

Arseni Koromyslov - Defense - SKA-1946 St. Petersburg (MHL)

Jack Hughes - Center - Northeastern (NCAA)

Lane Hutson - Defense - USNDP (USHL)

Gavin Hayes - Wing - Flint Firebirds (OHL)

Otto Salin - Defense - HIFK (Fin-Liiga)

Hunter Haight - Center - Barrie Colts (OHL)

Antonin Verreault - Wing - Gatineau Olympiques (QMJHL)

Cameron Lund - Wing/Center - Green Bay Gambles (USHL)

Bryce McConnell-Barker - Center/Wing - Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (OHL)

Brennan Ali - Center - Avon Old Farms (USHS - PREP)

2022 NHLDRAFT: MCKEEN’S MID-SEASON RANKING – TOP 100

2022 NHLDRAFT: MCKEEN’S MID-SEASON RANKING – TOP 32

Prospect System Ranking – 22^nd (20^th last year)