Dylan Garand – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #16 New York Rangers – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Fri, 01 May 2026 18:00:47 +0000

PITTSBURGH, PA - JANUARY 31: New York Rangers right wing Gabe Perreault (94) warms up before the NHL game between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Rangers on January 31, 2026, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, PA. (Photo by Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 16th (Last Year - 17th)
GM: Chris Drury Hired: May 2021
COACH: Mike Sullivan Hired: May 2025

Having missed the playoffs for a second consecutive season, the New York Rangers appear to be turning the page and shifting their focus toward the future. If there were any doubts about that direction, the decision to trade Artemi Panarin to the Los Angeles Kings made things crystal clear. That move, along with several others at the NHL trade deadline, has significantly reshaped the organization’s draft outlook. The Rangers now hold seven selections across the first three rounds of the 2026 NHL Draft, including two first-round picks. One of those selections could land near the top of the draft, if not first, giving the organization an opportunity to inject high-end talent into what is currently a middle-of-the-pack prospect system.

That prospect system is also on the verge of losing one of its most impactful names. Gabe Perreault (21st) has already made the jump to the NHL and is producing at a promising rate as a 20-year-old, positioning himself to graduate from prospect status by our next instalment. Acquired in the Panarin trade, Liam Greentree (36th) now headlines the Rangers’ junior contingent. While his OHL production has taken a slight step back, his combination of size and skill continues to project well at the NHL level. In Flint, Nathan Aspinall has enjoyed a breakout season, finishing second in OHL scoring with 94 points — exactly doubling his output from the 2024–25 campaign. He is joined by recently acquired forward Jacob Battaglia, who was brought in at the trade deadline in a deal that sent former top prospect Brennan Othmann to a new organization for a fresh start.

While it appeared at times that Chris Drury was attempting to salvage the current core, the organization has now committed to a quicker retool. With increased draft capital and a building prospect base, the Rangers will look to reset and reestablish themselves as a contender in the near future.

NHL	RNK	PLAYER	POS	AGE	HT/WT	2024-25 TM	GP	G(W)	A(L)	PTS(GAA)	PIM(SPCT)
NYR	1	Gabe Perreault	LW	21	5-11/180	NY Rangers (NHL)	49	12	15	27	10
NYR	1	Gabe Perreault	LW	21	5-11/180	Hartford (AHL)	20	10	7	17	14
NYR	2	Scott Morrow	D	23	6-2/210	Hartford (AHL)	34	5	14	19	69
NYR	2	Scott Morrow	D	23	6-2/210	NY Rangers (NHL)	29	0	6	6	4
NYR	3	Liam Greentree	RW	20	6-3/215	Windsor (OHL)	52	38	36	74	63
NYR	4	EJ Emery	D	20	6-3/185	North Dakota (NCAA)	38	3	10	13	32
NYR	5	Dylan Roobroeck	C	21	6-6/190	Hartford (AHL)	72	11	15	26	90
NYR	6	Drew Fortescue	D	21	6-1/175	Boston College (NCAA)	36	4	10	14	47
NYR	6	Drew Fortescue	D	21	6-1/175	NY Rangers (NHL)	9	0	2	2	4
NYR	7	Malcolm Spence	LW	19	6-1/200	Michigan (NCAA)	40	10	15	25	44
NYR	8	Nathan Aspinall	LW	20	6-7/205	Flint (OHL)	65	33	61	94	42
NYR	9	Aidan Thompson	LW	24	5-11/180	Rfd-Hfd (AHL)	58	8	14	22	22
NYR	10	Jacob Battaglia	RW	20	6-1/200	Kgn-Fln (OHL)	64	26	22	48	61
NYR	11	Adam Sykora	RW	21	5-10/170	Hartford (AHL)	62	12	17	29	28
NYR	11	Adam Sykora	RW	21	5-10/170	NY Rangers (NHL)	11	3	1	4	5
NYR	12	Jaroslav Chmelar	RW	22	6-5/220	Hartford (AHL)	46	8	17	25	42
NYR	12	Jaroslav Chmelar	RW	22	6-5/220	NY Rangers (NHL)	28	4	2	6	11
NYR	13	Dylan Garand	G	23	6-0/175	Hartford (AHL)	36	16	15	2.83	0.896
NYR	14	Ty Henricks	LW	20	6-4/205	Western Michigan (NCAA)	39	9	16	25	43
NYR	15	Carey Terrance	C	21	6-1/175	Hartford (AHL)	68	8	9	17	44

Gabe Perreault, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

In a season full of disappointment, Perreault has proven to be one of the brightest lights in the organization. After being selected 23rd overall in the 2023 draft, Perreault exploded onto the college scene with 60 points as a freshman. The 48 points in 37 games in his sophomore year paled in comparison, but after two straight WJC performances with 10 points apiece, he’s jumped right into his pro rookie season showing that hardly any adjustment period is necessary. Always more of a playmaker than goalscorer, Perreault had no problem putting the puck in the net at the AHL level for the initial quarter of the season and since joining the Rangers a week before Christmas, he hasn’t looked back, having often accumulated at least 16 minutes of TOI along the way with upwards of 20 by season's end. It is important that, despite being slightly undersized, his elite hockey IQ is translating, and he seems to already understand that shooting is often the best choice you have on the attack. Skating hasn’t held him back thus far, but it is surely on the “desired improvement” list heading into the offseason. A post trade deadline burst of offence with nine points in his first six games was a promising sign of his role going forward. It is possible an invitation to the World Championships for Team USA is in the cards.
Scott Morrow, D, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

After a fairly fantastic 24-25 AHL season with the Chicago Wolves that led to 19 total games with the Carolina Hurricanes, Morrow became a key component of a trade that saw K’Andre Miller go from the Rangers to the Canes this past offseason, allowing Morrow to enter this season as no less than the Rangers’ top defensive prospect. Seen as a modern two-way threat with strong transition skills, he’s shown the ability to beat goalies from the point and use his stickhandling and body positioning to take advantage of opponents while finding open teammates. What the Rangers have nonetheless found out at both the AHL and NHL levels this season is that Morrow is a work in progress in the defensive zone, having been right in the middle of a number of goals against this season. He kicked things off with less than desirable AHL statistics but was forced into duty on a Rangers’ team and blueline that has disappointed just about all season long. The plus is that he has ridden with the opportunity and hovered around 15 minutes of TOI per night, gaining valuable experience to build on. More offensive contributions were hoped for and he finished the season with Hartford but should see more time with the NHL club next year.
Liam Greentree, RW, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

Selected 26th overall in the first round of the 2024 NHL Draft by the Los Angeles Kings, Greentree was the key piece returning to the New York Rangers in the Artemi Panarin trade to the LA Kings earlier this month. Greentree has served as captain of the Windsor Spitfires for the past two seasons. The power winger is known for his offensive skill and lethal shot, though his point production has dipped this season compared to the previous two. Greentree was named to Canada’s 2026 World Junior team but saw limited usage, dressing for just three games as the 13th forward. His play away from the puck and skating were exposed at the World Junior tournament, his motor remains not high enough and is still lacking the footspeed needed as a power winger. Greentree possesses a high character and discipline, and with continued development under the Rangers’ player development staff, he projects as a potential middle six winger. He remains a work in progress, but patience in his development could yield a significant payoff.
EJ Emery, D, University of North Dakota (NCAA)

Emery is a defensive-minded defender, who showcased his defensive maturity with the USNTDP in his draft year. With his stout defensive play, Emery was selected in the first round. His pro-style play, strong skating, and all-around smarts lends itself to a more translatable skill set to the NHL. Since joining the NCAA, his offensive impacts have remained virtually the same. He isn’t producing much of anything, going from one point in his first season, across 31 games, to 13 points in 38 games this year. He still plays a very defensive-oriented style, remaining responsible and conservative in the offensive end. However, he has become slightly more involved when it comes to transitioning the puck up ice. That development is at least a bit noticeable. That being said, it isn’t often that defenders become long-term NHL players without some more respectable offensive numbers at the junior and collegiate levels. That’s not to say he doesn’t have an NHL projection, but it does mean he needs to take a bigger step in providing at least a bit more offence. He currently projects as a bottom-pair defender with penalty-killing upside. But again, his offensive game needs to be better for him to carve out a top four role in the future.
Dylan Roobroeck, C, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

If the name Roobroeck pops out at you, it’s because Dylan’s brother Ryan entered this season looking like a surefire first round draft pick. The hype has settled down for Ryan, but playing some intense hockey is surely in the family genes. To be clear, Dylan was a late round pick in 2023, and his size, hands, and occasional snarl jumped out at scouts. So too did his lack of mobility and weaknesses in various aspects of the game across all three zones. Then he jumped right into AHL play last season and pumped in 20 goals. This saw his prospect status take a leap, especially considering he had little problem adjusting to the rough stuff the league entails. Enter the 25-26 season, one that has seen him fall into a sophomore slump of sorts. Sure, he’s still where he was initially envisioned to be but is nowhere close to repeating last season’s success. Hartford’s woes haven’t helped. But now we have to wonder if he is going to be an NHL topic. Mobility is still an issue, and opponents have scored plenty of goals with him on the ice. Can this disappointing season lead to the necessary adjustments?
Drew Fortescue, D, Boston College (NCAA)

Fortescue, a third-round draft choice of the New York Rangers, is a shut-down, pro-style defender. He was drafted due to his stout defensive play and overall smarts. Almost always in the right spot, he was lauded for his high hockey IQ and ability to read the play from the defensive end. While offence has never been his game, he did need to develop that side of his game a bit more. Since joining Boston College, his offense has seen some improvement from a raw production standpoint. But what has stood out the most in that area is his puck-moving ability. What was once a weakness has become a more evident positive in his game, as he has been relied on more and more with each passing season to help transition the puck up ice. So, while his offensive production and impact have somewhat remained the same, he has steadily improved his overall impact on the game in a way that will help him potentially carve out an NHL role. His skating has also improved over the last couple of years, as expected. Fortescue projects as a bottom-pair defensive defenseman, so long as he continues his upward trajectory.
Malcolm Spence, LW, University of Michigan (NCAA)

Spence, a second-round draft selection of the Rangers, had a solid OHL outing in his draft year, scoring over 30 goals and producing over a point-per-game. His strong skating, high-end motor, and willingness to play with a bit of a physical edge were traits that scouts enjoyed. His shoot-first mentality was also a boon to his draft stock. However, he did struggle with decision-making, especially under pressure, while his consistency in all three zones needed work. He made the jump to the NCAA for this season, joining Michigan, to help his development. In a much smaller role than what he played in the OHL, his production, of course, took a hit. But his play with the puck, in terms of play-creation and shot-creation, are fairly similar. Spence has been able to translate fairly well to the collegiate level, and as he gets a bigger role moving forward, the production should follow. He’s projected to be a middle-six winger, but with another year or two in the NCAA with better production, there’s a world where he could end up filling a top six role.
Nathan Aspinall, LW, Flint Firebirds (OHL)

A fifth-round pick selected 159th overall in the 2024 NHL Draft by the New York Rangers, the Firebirds captain is enjoying a breakout season. He finished second in the OHL in points finished among the top three all-time for most points in a season in Firebirds history. Aspinall is most effective playing down low, as he can serve as a dual threat - capable of finishing plays off or being a facilitator. His size and shot power make him a deceptive playmaker as he must be respected as a shooting threat while he can seam passes through traffic into passing lanes. The confidence level is high in Aspinall’s play, recording more than 75% of his points at even-strength. While he is still filling out his frame and improving his skating, he is quickly learning to leverage his size and physicality. His strength in his active stick has allowed him to average nearly 2.5 takeaways per game in the defensive zone. The significant spike in Aspinall’s development this season can give Rangers executives confidence that he could slot in as a bottom six forward at the next level in the near future.
Aidan Thompson, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

After a terrific three year run at the University of Denver, Thompson turned pro this year, but the offensive production hasn’t quite met expectations. Due to the depth of Chicago’s system, he had a hard time finding consistent production and ice time with Rockford. However, after a deadline deal to the New York Rangers, Thompson finds himself in a system with less forward depth, which should mean increased responsibility and a better opportunity to produce with Hartford. He’s an energetic and quick paced forward who projects as a possible middle six type once he gains his footing and adjusts to the pace and physicality of the pro game. Thompson is a high-end playmaker who is very sound with the puck, but the key will be finding ways to impact the game away from the puck like he did at Denver, despite only possessing average size. Considering that the Hawks gave up Thompson in exchange for an AHL veteran, it does make you wonder if they saw something to suggest that Thompson would struggle to be an impact pro.
Jacob Battaglia, RW, Flint Firebirds (OHL)

Battaglia’s draft plus one year was outstanding, as he quietly emerged as one of the most effective forwards in the OHL for the Kingston Frontenacs. However, this season has seen him take a step back, splitting the year between Kingston and Flint. Battaglia is an intelligent playmaker for a big winger, and he has worked to improve both his skating and physical consistency. However, the skating development has seemed to plateau this season and Battaglia is not playing with the same kind of confidence with the puck that he showcased last year. He has not consistently shown the creativity and skill that he exhibited during his breakout season. But it’s too early to give up on Battaglia. He still has the makings of an excellent middle six, complementary piece. Now in the Rangers organization after a deadline move, Battaglia already inked an ELC, otherwise the NCAA level would have been great for him for a few seasons to help him continue to improve as a skater and physically. However, that opportunity does seem to be closed despite the recent eligibility changes.
Adam Sykora, RW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

A 2022 second round draft pick, Sykora came out of the top Slovakia professional league looking like a fascinating water bug player with a bright future. Two and a half AHL seasons later, he’s still got plenty of energy and can make his way around the ice as a player ready to do whatever his coaches ask of him, but his offensive game just hasn’t come along as once hoped for. At this point, a pesky fourth line role looks like his NHL limit.
Jaroslav Chmelar, RW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

The hulking winger out of Czechia has earned some NHL time this year, even though his AHL production has been pretty pedestrian. It’s obvious that the Rangers view him as a potential bottom six option who can bring physicality.
Dylan Garand, G, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

While Garand hasn’t been as good as he was last year with Hartford, he’s still likely in New York’s plans as a possible back-up moving forward. Jonathan Quick is a pending UFA and that could open up the door for Garand.
Ty Henricks, LW, Western Michigan University (NCAA)

A big, physical winger, Henricks has seen notable improvement between his freshman and sophomore seasons with Western Michigan. Henricks may not offer terrific NHL upside, but he has the tools to be a potential bottom six asset.
Carey Terrance, C, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

It took a few years for Terrance’s offensive game to come around at the OHL level and the Rangers may need to be equally patient with him as a pro. He’s a terrific skater and he brings effort at both ends. At the very least, a potential fourth line penalty killer.

NHL: Victor Nuño – DYNASTY STOCK WATCH – New York Rangers Edition

Victor Nuño — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 15:54:42 +0000

NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 02: New York Rangers Defenseman Scott Morrow (60) warms up before the NHL preseason professional men’s hockey game between the New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers on October 2, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. (Photo by Bob Kupbens/Icon Sportswire)

McKeen’s Hockey: Dynasty Stock Watch

The Dynasty Stock Watch is designed to go team-by-team across the NHL and evaluate which prospects dynasty managers should be looking to buy and which they should be looking to sell. The goal isn’t to rank prospects in a vacuum, but to assess their current fantasy market value relative to long-term upside. “Buy” candidates are players whose cost is likely lower than their future production potential, creating opportunities to acquire them before their stock rises. “Sell” candidates are players whose value is inflated by pedigree, recent performance, or name recognition, making it a good time to cash out before regression or role limitations set in. Each installment provides dynasty-specific context, helping you navigate short-term hype and long-term sustainability in building your roster.

New York Rangers Edition

Team Outlook

The Rangers missed the playoffs in 2024-25, which signaled that the roster can no longer rely solely on a few stars to carry them. They still have elite talent in Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox, Igor Shesterkin, and re-acquired JT Miller, but the supporting cast has been inconsistent. The organization now needs its young players to step forward, not just as depth options but as impact contributors who can drive play and provide scoring support.

A major franchise question looms around Artemi Panarin’s future, as he is set to become a free agent after the 2025-26 season. If he re-signs, the Rangers can continue to push in a win now direction. If he leaves, the team may be forced to retool around a younger core. Either way, the development and emergence of their prospects will determine how competitive they remain. For dynasty managers, this creates a crucial window to track which young players are positioned to seize larger roles, because opportunity in New York could open up dramatically over the next one to two years.

Buy Candidates

Gabe Perreault (RW, 20)
Why Buy?
After a stellar run with the USNTDP and an immediate impact at Boston College, Perreault is beginning his professional career in the AHL. Some dynasty managers may view this as a step back, but it is more a reflection of the Rangers’ depth than any concern with his development. Perreault’s hockey IQ and playmaking ability are among the best of any prospect in the game. His skating still divides scouts, but his ability to anticipate play, create in tight spaces, and elevate linemates is elite. Once he adjusts to the pace of the pro game, his vision and touch should translate seamlessly.

Because New York’s top six is loaded, his NHL timeline may stretch slightly, which has temporarily kept his fantasy cost reasonable. That creates a perfect buying window for patient managers. His long-term projection still includes top six usage and power-play time, and his upside remains that of a high-end offensive contributor. If anyone in your league believes the AHL assignment lowers his ceiling, this is the time to send a trade offer. Patience now could lead to a major payoff when he becomes a core fantasy asset.

Scott Morrow (D, 22)
Why Buy?

Morrow may never completely replace Adam Fox, but the gap might be smaller than people think. His size, mobility, and offensive instincts make him one of the most intriguing blueliners in the Rangers’ system. Adam Fox’s production has quietly trended downward over the past few seasons, and after his poor performance at the Four Nations Face-Off, there is growing scrutiny about who might eventually take over top offensive duties. Importantly, Morrow’s Regularized Adjusted Plus-Minus (RAPM) chart via Evolving Hockey from last season shows that, in limited NHL action, he already drives offense at a high level. He does, however, still need to refine his defensive acumen, which is typical for young offensive defensemen. If the Rangers split power-play units or Fox misses time, Morrow is the most likely candidate to step in.

His demotion to the AHL to start the season was more about his waiver-exempt status than his performance, which creates an ideal buying window. Dynasty managers often overreact to assignments, assuming a player is not ready, when in reality Morrow is close to NHL usage and just needs reps. His transition to pro hockey has been smooth, and his long-term opportunity remains tied to one of the best offensive environments in the league. If anyone in your league views him as blocked or unimpressive, use that to your advantage in trade negotiations. Stashing him now could yield a quick and significant payoff once the opportunity opens up.

Dylan Garand (G, 23)
Why Buy?
Goaltending prospects are always volatile, but Garand has quietly built one of the stronger development curves among young goalies. After a rough adjustment to the professional level in the AHL, he bounced back in a big way last year and became one of Hartford’s most reliable players. His Hockey Prospecting model shows roughly a 34 percent chance of becoming an NHLer, which is a strong projection for a goaltender. One of his top historical comparables is Sam Montembeault, who took a few years to find his footing and earn a real opportunity, but is now thriving as an NHL starter. Garand could follow a similar trajectory. Although he is slightly undersized by modern standards, he has a strong technical foundation, excellent compete level, and a proven winning pedigree, including backstopping Canada to gold at the 2022 World Junior Championship.

With Igor Shesterkin locked in as the starter, Garand profiles as one of the better future backup or 1B options in the league. If Shesterkin ever misses time, Garand could step into a strong Rangers roster and immediately provide wins and quality rate stats. The Rangers do not have many other viable internal candidates at the position, which further boosts his long-term opportunity. His dynasty acquisition cost remains low because he is currently blocked, but that is exactly what makes him a smart stash. Quality insurance goaltenders are incredibly valuable in deep formats, and Garand has both the skill and situation to outperform expectations once he gets his chance. This is the ideal time to buy before his value climbs.

Sell Candidates

Malcolm Spence (LW, 19)
Why Sell?
Spence’s speed, energy, and relentless motor made him an exciting draft pick, and his compete level is one of the best in his class. He plays with pace, tracks well, and does all the little things coaches love. However, from a fantasy perspective, his offensive toolkit is not as refined as other forward prospects, and he profiles more as a middle-six complementary winger than a primary scorer. His fantasy hockey life skater card shows a solid peripheral floor, but without strong point production, that alone will not carry his value in most formats. In short, he is likely to be a better real-life player for the Rangers than a high-end fantasy asset.

Right now, Spence still carries “draft shine,” and his strong start to his NCAA career may cause some managers to overestimate his long-term ceiling. This creates the ideal selling window. His name value and perceived upside may currently outweigh his true offensive projection. Dynasty managers should consider moving him before reality sets in and his value normalizes. If someone in your league believes he has top-six scoring upside, capitalize on that now and sell while the market is still inflated.

Brendan Brisson (LW/RW, 23)
Why Sell?
Brisson’s shot has always been his standout tool, and he built a strong reputation through his draft pedigree and international play. However, he was unable to crack the lineup with the Vegas Golden Knights, which was an early warning sign that his game might not translate as well as hoped. After being traded to the Rangers, he now faces another crowded forward group with limited openings in the top six. His RAPM chart via Evolving Hockey shows that his offensive impact, measured through expected goals, is not above NHL average, and his defensive results are poor. There simply is not enough value away from the puck to offset the inconsistency in his scoring.

Despite these concerns, his name still carries value in many dynasty leagues due to past production and his reputation as a scorer. Though it may be past time to sell, you can and should see what you can get. Someone in your league may still be willing to give him another chance, hoping he can rediscover his offense with a change of scenery. If that opportunity arises, you should make the trade. His long-term projection looks more like a depth winger with limited fantasy upside, and it is better to move him before that becomes obvious to everyone.

EJ Emery (D, 19)
Why Sell?
Emery brings size, reach, and strong defensive instincts, which give him a very clear path to the NHL. He is already advanced as a transition and shutdown defender, and his play at North Dakota reflected that, as seen in his Fantasy Hockey Life skater card. Coaches will love his ability to kill plays early, win battles, and make smart exits under pressure. In real hockey terms, he is the kind of steady, reliable blueliner teams trust in difficult minutes.

However, from a fantasy perspective, his ceiling is extremely limited. He is unlikely to produce many points at the NHL level, and his peripheral contributions are not high enough to offset the lack of offense. While his draft position and defensive reputation may still generate some hype, this is the perfect time to cash out before the fantasy market cools. Emery may become a valuable real-life NHL defenseman, but he is unlikely to ever be a valuable fantasy asset. Dynasty managers should move him now and use the name value while it still holds weight.

Summary

Player	Role	Key Insight
Gabe Perreault	Buy	Elite hockey sense and vision, value still muted by NHL timeline
Scott Morrow	Buy	Offensive defender who could climb quickly if given opportunity
Dylan Garand	Buy	Under-the-radar goalie with strong backup/1B potential
Malcolm Spence	Sell	Raw energy forward, ceiling limited to depth role
Brendan Brisson	Sell	Great shot, but crowded depth and inconsistency limit upside
EJ Emery	Sell	Safe NHL projection, but minimal fantasy relevance long-term

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #17

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 18:49:48 +0000

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 02: Rookie New York Rangers right wing Gabe Perreault (94) in action prior to the National Hockey League game between the Minnesota Wild and the New York Rangers on April 2, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. (Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire)

Prospect System Ranking – 17th (May 2025 - 19th)
GM: Chris Drury Hired: May 2021
COACH: Mike Sullivan Hired: May 2025

Once pegged as a Cup contender, New York missed the postseason for the first time in four years. GM Chris Drury stayed aggressive, reacquiring J.T. Miller in a win-now move and making it clear that his focus is still on competing, not retooling. A new head coach will now be tasked with guiding the team back into the playoff picture.

The Rangers entered the 2025 draft without a first-round pick, limiting their ability to add a blue-chip talent. Their biggest splash came via trade, sending K’Andre Miller to Carolina for offensive defenseman Scott Morrow, who immediately steps in as the organization’s top prospect and a candidate to crack the NHL lineup this fall.

Coming in at a close second is Gabe Perreault, who’s fresh off signing his entry-level deal. He capped a brilliant two-year run at Boston College with 35 goals and 108 points in 73 games. While his short NHL debut didn’t produce much offensively, his creativity and scoring instincts suggest he’s not far from locking down a top six role.

Brennan Othmann and Brett Berard both earned NHL cameos this season and are knocking on the door of full-time jobs. Depth options such as Adam Sýkora, newly acquired Brendan Brisson, and goaltender Dylan Garand continue to develop in Hartford, providing additional reinforcements.

With a new and established bench boss in place and Drury extended as GM, the Rangers remain committed to winning with their current core. But after another missed opportunity, the pressure is mounting for this group to deliver—and the next wave of prospects could be key to pushing them over the top.

New York Rangers Top-15 Prospects

1 - Scott Morrow

Scott Morrow is one of the most talented defensive prospects in the NHL. While playing in the AHL last season with the Chicago Wolves, Morrow was a huge presence at both ends of the ice. In the offensive zone, he’s always a threat to shoot. He can beat goalies cleanly with pinpoint accuracy from the point, but he can also use his stickhandling and body positioning to fake out opposing players and find open teammates. Morrow’s game has also really matured in the defensive zone, where he can use his strong frame to tackle heavy minutes on a nightly basis against opposing teams’ top players. Now having wrapped up his first full professional season, and after an offseason trade, Morrow looks ready to make the New York Rangers as a full-time NHLer. Morrow should occupy bottom-pairing minutes to start the year, but don’t be surprised when you see Morrow become a mainstay in the Rangers’ top four. He’s just that talented.

2 - Gabe Perreault

Gabe Perreault is coming off a down year statistically…where he piled up 48 points and finished 11th in NCAA scoring. Not too much to be disappointed about there, except for the fact that he put up 60 points the year before. Perreault is very dangerous offensively thanks to his elite hockey IQ and fantastic playmaking ability, plus he had great puck skills to boot. The biggest knock on Perreault is his skating ability, which is average at best. This season, Perreault likely will develop in a top six role in the AHL while the Rangers work with him to improve his skating. If his skating remains around average, his ability should allow him to contribute in a top six capacity while particularly being a threat on the power play. If he can make strides toward improving his skating, his hockey IQ and skill set are enough that he could be a top-of-the-lineup offensive driver.

3 - Brennan Othmann

Brennan Othmann is a very talented goal scorer with a quick release. Othmann is always a threat to score when the puck is on his stick in the offensive zone, but he’s more than just a goal scorer; he’s a great playmaker who can find open teammates with little time and space. There were moments last season when Othmann looked like a player that was just too good to be playing in the AHL, and he was very deserving of his midseason call-up to the New York Rangers. With that being said, Othmann did have trouble creating consistent offence at the NHL level, but he did have very limited opportunity (mostly playing a fourth-line role). Nevertheless, Othmann’s game looks to be trending in the right direction, and he appears to be on track to have a good shot at earning a roster spot in the Rangers’ top nine this fall. The points will come as he learns to figure out the NHL game, and with a bit more opportunity, we can expect that this season.

4 - EJ Emery

Emery established himself as a physical, defence-first defenceman with solid gap control and effective stick work last season. His skating is serviceable for his size, allowing him to maintain defensive positioning and excel in net-front situations. Early reports highlighted his need to improve decision making and puck management, particularly under pressure. While he has shown flashes of strong puck movement on breakouts, inconsistency remains a concern. Emery’s strengths lie in his defensive awareness, physicality, and penalty-killing ability. He is reliable against rush attacks and uses his size to close off space. However, his limited offensive upside and inconsistent engagement in puck battles have limited his overall impact at the college level thus far. He needs further development in his puck-moving decisions and increased consistency in his defensive reads. His projection remains that of a second or third pairing NHL defenceman, best utilized in shutdown and penalty killing situations.

5 - Dylan Garand

In Dylan Garand's second year as Hartford’s starting goalie, he finally took that big jump. He’s become a top goalie in the AHL, while on a poor Hartford squad. His attention to detail is immaculate. He’s an exceptional skater, a fantastic playreader, and has phenomenal positioning. He’s a calm and reserved goalie playing deep to read and react, rather than aggressively anticipate play. Because he is generally always in position, he rarely displays his sneaky athleticism. While for the most part, his positioning is great, he could be more aggressive. At 6-foot-0, it would be better for him to try to take up more space when possible by gaining ice. While he’s always going to put himself into a position to save the puck, he isn’t necessarily covering as much net as possible. More experience should hopefully develop that area. Even being undersized, the potential of becoming a starting goalie in the NHL is high. We could likely see him in the NHL within the next two years if and when Jonathan Quick retires, allowing Garand to back up Shesterkin.

6 - Malcolm Spence

A second-round selection by the Rangers in 2025, Spence is a detail oriented, but athletic, two-way winger. His skating ability is one of his best assets, as he is explosive and quick skating downhill, allowing him to be an effective offensive player North/South. Spence is also a strong defensive player who is aggressive in puck pursuit and who has an active stick in the neutral and defensive zones. When paired with his strong skating ability, it makes Spence a reliable penalty killing option. The questions regarding Spence revolve around his offensive upside. Through three OHL seasons with the Erie Otters, Spence’s offensive game never reached the height some expected when he was drafted into the OHL second overall. That’s part of why he has altered his course and committed to the Michigan Wolverines next year. A new challenge should help to bring out the best in Spence and the college game fits his skill set well. Even in a worst-case scenario situation, Spence should be able to develop into a quality depth player for the Rangers down the line.

7 - Carey Terrance

For Terrance, it’s all about speed. His quickness is the heart and soul of his game, and it allows him to be a versatile and well-rounded two-way forward. Acquired from Anaheim in the Chris Kreider trade, Terrance’s offensive play did seem to stagnate a bit in the OHL the last few seasons. He’s not going to be a highly creative or skilled offensive contributor at the NHL level. However, he brings value because of his aforementioned versatility. He can play any forward position. He is an outstanding penalty killer. He is aggressive in getting to the net and can operate well as a forechecker, a role that helped the U.S. win gold at the most recent World Junior Championships. Turning pro this year, expect Terrance to need a few years in the AHL before he’s ready to earn a roster spot in the Big Apple. However, he has a good chance of developing into a quality bottom six contributor for the Rangers in time.

8 - Dylan Roobroeck

Dylan Roobroeck was extremely impressive for the Hartford Wolf Pack last season, especially because it was his first season in professional hockey. It was thought that Roobroeck would take more time to adapt his offence to the pro game, and that points would be more difficult to obtain now that he was playing versus men. Roobroeck ultimately proved his critics wrong and was an offensive threat for the Hartford Wolf Pack all season. With Roobroeck, it’s not just his size that allows him to get to the gritty areas to score goals; he also has nice hands and a powerful release. Roobroeck does need to continue to develop his skating at the AHL level, but the path is there for him to become a future NHL player. It’s not hard to envision Roobroeck as an effective third line forward at the NHL level, and he could even become an option as a net front presence on a second-unit power play. If not, becoming a fourth line forward is not out of the question.

9 - Drew Fortescue

After being selected in the third-round of the 2023 draft, 6-foot-2 blueliner Drew Fortescue has shown steady growth in his game. Offensively, there isn’t much to get excited about, with 19 points over two seasons, but Fortescue is a reliable pillar on the back end for Boston College. Fortescue can defend the rush well and is improving with his reads in the defensive zone, as well as getting stronger. In transition, Fortescue is also very dependable, as he moves the puck efficiently and gets it up ice quickly. The two-time World Junior gold medalist was a key shutdown piece in last year’s tournament for the United States, as he was paired with offensive dynamo Zeev Buium and logged top pair minutes. This season, he will head back to Boston College for another year in the NCAA, but down the line Fortescue could be a reliable bottom-pair NHL defender.

10 - Sean Barnhill

“Big Defenceman Fever” hit the New York Rangers again this year when they selected 6-foot-5 defenceman Sean Barnhill. He was THE defensive rock for Dubuque this past season, being both a stay-at-home defenceman and quite mobile and solid as a puck carrier. His skating and his stick-checking are major factors in the solid defence he applies to opponents. Barnhill’s advanced gap control was responsible for quelling many rushes, especially in Dubuque’s Clark Cup run. After originally committing to Northeastern, Barnhill switched his commitment to Michigan State, where he will be seen as a luxury as the biggest RHD on the Spartans roster. It will be tough to get premium minutes on a loaded back end, but Barnhill has the tools to take advantage of this opportunity in front of him.

11 - Adam Sykora

Not many players play with the amount of energy that Adam Sykora does. He’s an unrelenting, unselfish player who teammates and coaches adore. He is a hard forechecker as well as someone who plays on the penalty kill. He had 30 points in 71 games last year with Hartford, and if his point totals continue to grow modestly, he could earn a call-up as purely a fourth-line guy.

12 - Noah Laba

An underrated center prospect, Laba has done well to improve his NHL chances in recent seasons. After a freshman season where he was a -18, Laba turned it around the next season to be a +20 and point-per-game player. He has become a true two-way guy as his first AHL goal came shorthanded. He’ll get a full season in Hartford next season, where he should be instantly impactful in the top six.

13 - Jaroslav Chmelar

Chmelar is a big winger with some good offensive tools. The downside is that he isn’t defensively skilled enough for the pro level. In his first season with Hartford, he was a -37 while only scoring 30 points. He’ll need a significant amount of time in Hartford to improve defensively before he can be trusted in any role in the NHL.

14 - Nathan Aspinall

Standing at a tall 6-foot-7, Aspinall knows he is best utilized at the net front. He’ll park in front of the net using his frame to screen the goalie and his stick to get a deflection on any puck within his gigantic reach. He has a nice passing touch to complement his size, allowing him to find teammates in tight spaces. He’ll return to Flint in the OHL for his fourth year, where point production should be his main focus.

15 - Zeb Lindgren

2025 was the tale of two defencemen for Zeb Lindgren. The first half saw a defenceman who was competitive in his own zone, willing to take it himself in transition, and overall had that competitive two-way attitude. In the second half, that spark was gone. Lindgren can take big steps next year with Skellefteå if he can find ways to overcome his own mental hurdles.

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #19 NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

Sat, 24 May 2025 12:05:34 +0000

NEW YORK, NY - APRIL 07: New York Rangers right wing Gabe Perreault (94) skates against Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Nick Paul (20) during the third period of the National Hockey League game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the New York Rangers on April 7, 2025 at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. (Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire)

Subscribers can download the PDF in subscriber downloads.

Please note you can scroll through the PDF document here as well

NY Rangers 25 Prospects

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.

2021-22 TOP 15 PROSPECTS: NEW YORK RANGERS – RANK: #5- TIER II

McKeen's Hockey — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 16:33:16 +0000

New York Rangers

#5 NY Rangers - Graduations have taken out some of the elite names that used to dot the top of the NYR system, but they still place five players in our top 100.

NEW YORK, NY - JUNE 29: New York Rangers Defenseman Nils Lundkvist (64) skates during the New York Rangers Prospect Development Camp on June 29, 2018 at the MSG Training Center in New York, NY. (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire)

Nils Lundkvist

There is no doubt Nils Lundkvist should be in the NHL next season. The Rangers´ prospect won the Salming Trophy for the SHL Defenseman of the Year at 20 years of age, after an impressive season with Lulea HF. He started well at the Worlds Men's Championships too, but unfortunately for Team Sweden, Lundkvist got injured after three games and didn't play a single shift after that. Luckily, it was not that serious, and the young Swede has gone back to full training.

The 5-10”, 187 lbs, Pitea native is a smooth-skating offensive contributor who likes to move the puck and make plays. Nils Lundkvist scored at least 30 points in the SHL for two seasons in a row. Last year, he managed to score 14 goals and add 18 assists. The Rangers should get Lundkvist a partner who is big and defensively responsible, two things the young prospect is not exactly known for. Luckily for him, Patrik Nemeth signed with the New York team in the offseason and should help the younger countryman to adapt in the NHL. Lundkvist has the potential to become an elite offensive defenseman one day. - MD

Vitali Kravtsov

After struggling in his first North American season, the delay of the NHL season gave Kravtsov a unique chance for a restart at home. Things couldn't have worked out better, as he got loaned to his home KHL team with his draft year's coach returning to that team. Unsurprisingly Kravtsov's game got going in the right direction very quickly and he was able to regain his confidence offensively. Upon returning to the NHL after the KHL season concluded Kravtsov looked much improved, even if the production may not have explicitly told that story.

Now Kravtsov' enters this coming season with the goal of establishing himself as an everyday NHL player, who can provide an offensive spark with his attacking style, while also improving his defensive effort and play. This is totally achievable considering Kratsov's talent level. His speed, goal scoring ability, and ability to use his size in transition are all weapons and make him a good bet to become a top six forward for the Rangers. Hopefully he can gain the confidence of new head coach Gerard Gallant and be given ample opportunity to remain in the lineup. - VF

Brennan Othmann

Othmann, a 6’0 power winger, was one of the first Ontario based players to head overseas this season with the uncertainty surrounding the OHL. Thanks to his dual nationality (Canadian and Swiss) and family connections (Uncle Robert coaches in Switzerland), Othmann was able to quickly secure a spot in the Swiss second league (SL) with EHC Olten to further his development. Othmann performed admirably in a men’s league, but it was at the Under 18 tournament in Texas, reuniting with former minor hockey linemate Shane Wright and joining forces with Dylan Guenther to form Canada’s top line, where he really shined. One thing that he was able to showcase is that he is actually a fairly skilled player and is perfectly capable of playing a complementary role on a scoring line. He is an active forechecker and he loves to throw his weight around, either by driving the net or applying pressure to opposing defenders in puck pursuit. As such, he opens up ice and space for his linemates to let them utilize their skill to facilitate. But with a big shot, soft hands, and improving vision with the puck, he can be an offensive weapon for them too.

Ultimately what you have in Othmann is a throwback power winger who plays on the edge, but also possesses the skill and finishing ability to play inside your top six and on the top powerplay unit. He hits hard. His two-way game is developing. His skating is improving. His overall offensive skill set is becoming more well-rounded. Players like him are rare in the game today and with the right development, Othmann has a chance to be a very valuable NHL player for the Rangers. - McKeen’s Draft Guide 2021

Braden Schneider

Braden Schneider is a player that you build a contending team around. He has all the attributes that you want in a defender. He is strong and physically able to hold his ground while making some higher skilled plays. His footwork is good for a big man, quick and agile for a man of his size. He sports a right shot that makes him instantly valuable. At the Junior level, he has shown flashes of offensive skill coupled with steady production improvement; from .33 points per game, to .5 to .7 and finally to 1.23 in his latest season. This bodes well for him to project as more than a defensive first, simple puck mover.

He isn’t a dynamic offensive player, but he can contribute. His shot is also an asset. He has a big shot, and he is a solid one-time option from the blue line. His passing skills are solid, but he doesn’t have elite vision. As one of the older kids in his draft class it was expected for him to be dominant in the WHL this year and he did just that, leading an impressive Brandon Team in the Regina bubble. Schneider is a high floor guy who almost certainly plays in the NHL; however, projections range from a third pairing shutdown type and penalty killer to possible #2-3 depending on how close he gets to his ceiling. - VG

Zac Jones

Sometimes when a young player figures it out, everything clicks in an instant and he simply takes off, reaching new stratospheres of on-ice impact. Jones might just have taken off in the last year. A late bloomer from outside of Richmond, Virginia, he emerged seemingly full-formed in his draft year with Tri-City of the USHL, teaming up with Philadelphia prospect Ronnie Attard for one of, if not the, best blueline pairings in the league. His lack of size and skating that was more shifty than blazing fast suggested a limited upside, but the Rangers took a third-round flyer on him nonetheless.

He moved on to UMass, trying to fill the shoes of the recently departed Cale Makar, and he led the team’s defenders in scoring (albeit without Makar’s breathtaking dynamic play). For his sophomore encore, Jones went from very impressive, to dominant. Once again, he led his team’s blueliners in offense, with more of it coming off his own stick, too. He was named an All-Tournament player as he helped lead the Minutemen to an NCAA title. Immediately, he signed a pro contract and got into 10 games for the Rangers, quickly ramping up from 10-12 minutes per game at first up to 17-19 minutes per game by the end. That wasn’t enough for Jones, as he continued his season in the World Championships, regularly topping 20 minutes per game and being named one of Team USA’s top three players on the way to a Bronze Medal. It would not surprise if Jones breaks camp next season in the NHL, and his upside is clearly in top four territory now. - RW

Matthew Robertson

Matthew Robertson is a rangy but strong defender who will take care of his own zone and move the puck out of his own zone effectively. Blessed with an enormous frame, Robertson does effective work in his own zone. He is a tough defender to shed and has quick footwork for a big man. He is able to stay with smaller speedy wingers and run them out of space with his quickness, physicality, and range. When moving the puck, he is a bit conservative, but it suits his game. He makes good reads and manages the puck well when it is on his stick. Not a wild puck rusher by any stretch, his offensive game revolves around making the smart play. Creativity is not his strong suit, as when faced with a difficult decision, he is more likely to opt for a simple dump into the corner, rather than try to wiggle his way out of it.

Destined to be a shutdown guy at the pro level, Robertson matches up well defending any type of forward as he rarely loses a physical battle. He is a cycle killer and can pin guys against the wall seemingly at will. His skating is fine for a big guy, but he isn’t the quickest accelerator. He will start his pro career in the AHL this coming season and should develop into a quality #4-5 for the Rangers within a few years. - VG

Morgan Barron

The older brother of Colorado first round pick Justin Barron, Morgan eschewed the CHL route for college, spending three seasons at Cornell – the last as team Captain – before turning pro last season. The former sixth round pick hit the ice running, producing at a point-per-game rate in the AHL and appeared in his first five NHL games, scoring his first NHL goal to boot. Barron has been easy to underestimate as he lacks any truly dynamic-level skills, but he does everything well, and has maintained a high-level of effectiveness at every level at which he has so far played. He plays between the dots and his intelligence – not just “hockey IQ”, but general intelligence – has always helped everything play up.

The expectation is that he will play more at the NHL level next season, although it is not as likely that he makes the NHL roster full time just yet, as the Rangers’ roster is deeper than it was last year. That said, if he shows that he can maintain the same level of offensive production in the AHL as last year, but over a more regular, full schedule, he will quickly force his way back up to Broadway. Between his well-rounded skill set and his plus size, he could be the ideal new-age bottom six center in short order, or at the very least, play on the wing. - RW

Tarmo Reunanen

Reunanen, a mobile, puck moving defender, is coming off of a terrific debut season in North America with the Hartford Wolf Pack. With 17 points in 21 games, Reunanen was the top scoring defenseman on Hartford and ended the season as an AHL All Star. Certainly, the Rangers blueline and prospect system is very deep, however it does seem likely that Reunanen will be able to earn a permanent place in the lineup if his play maintains this high level.

The key to his development will be continuing to improve his play in the defensive end, in addition to becoming a more difficult player to match up against physically. It seems unlikely that he will ever develop into a defensive stalwart, however, an average defensive performance would suffice given his strengths as a puck mover. His aggressiveness in leading the attack and ability to create in transition should play well, even if he is unable to wrangle powerplay time away from the likes of Adam Fox, K’ Andre Miller, or Zac Jones. Reunanen projects as a higher risk #4 or 5 and could be the perfect complement to someone like Matthew Robertson or Braden Schneider in the near future. - BO

Ryder Korczak

Ryder Korzcak, the younger brother of Vegas Golden Knights second round pick defender Kaedan, is a talented playmaker with a late ‘02 birthday. Playing in his third WHL season with the rebuilding Moose Jaw Warriors, Korczak wore an ‘A’ and was counted upon to be a go to offensive player this past season. While his production was not as high as anticipated, he was still a third-round selection by the Rangers in 2021.

Korczak is at his best working the half wall area, and despite his lack of size (5’10, 160lbs), consistently shows an ability to prolong possession in the offensive zone by working the cycle with his quick feet and hands. He is a very precise passer who always keeps his head up and on a swivel in the offensive zone and rarely makes a poor decision with the puck in the offensive zone. Where Korczak tends to struggle is the middle of the ice. He can be swallowed up and forced off the puck when he attempts to fight through checks in the slot area. As such, even when operating in transition, he tends to stick to the perimeter. That said, those weaknesses could certainly improve as he builds up strength and matures physically. Given his high IQ and vision, he does have a projection as a top six forward, if his development goes according to plan. - McKeen’s Draft Guide 2021

Brett Berard

Even though he was one of the most offensively proficient – and gifted – forwards of the 2020 USNTDP class, Berard was still available in the fifth round of the draft, where the Rangers finally stopped one of the most egregious drops of the 2020 draft class altogether. In some senses, his fall was foreseeable, even if the extent of the fall was still surprising. He is very small – not just short, but slight, too. He dealt with injuries in his draft year, shrinking the chances for scouts to watch him perform. The USNTDP of that year was on the blander side, without many first-round caliber talents drawing scouts to watch them week-in and week-out. Even Berard lacks any one elite level component to his game.

All of the above is true, and Berard should have still been drafted at least two full rounds before he was selected. His skills are solid, if not elite, but he has always managed to produce above his weight class thanks to high end instincts. He sees where the play is heading and where it could be headed if he pushes it in the right direction. He probably would not have made the WJC roster last year were it not for COVID keeping numerous candidates from Boston University and Michigan out of contention. Berard got one of those vacated spots and boosted his stock with consistently strong performances. He needs more time, but he will maximize every chance he gets. - RW

Lauri Pajuniemi

After two really strong seasons with TPS in Liiga, Pajuniemi has signed with the Rangers and will be making his North American debut this year. The talented goal scorer and late bloomer may even push for a roster spot this season with New York. His scoring instincts are excellent.

Jayden Grubbe

A torn ACL limited Grubbe’s draft season to only a handful of games, but the Rangers still selected him in the third round in 2021. The captain of the Red Deer Rebels is a physical, two-way center who projects as a high end third line center at the NHL level. He should be ready to play in the WHL at some point this year, but hopefully the knee injury hasn’t impaired his skating improvements.

Hunter Skinner

The plan for Skinner this past year was to have him take the lead on the London Knights blueline, which would have been great for his development. Due to the OHL cancellation, the Rangers had to pivot and got him set up in the ECHL as a 19-year-old, where he performed so well that he earned his ELC and finished the year with Hartford. Skinner will take some time to develop, but the physical blueliner has a cannon of a shot and raw skill that can be developed.

William Cuylle

A big power forward who can put the puck in the net, Cuylle played in the AHL on an exemption due to the OHL’s (aforementioned) cancellation. He will need to continue to upgrade his quickness to be an effective pro, but he will return to Windsor this coming year and should be among the OHL’s leading goal scorers if all goes according to plan.

Dylan Garand

For two straight seasons with Kamloops (WHL), Garand has been a stabilizing force between the pipes thanks to his quickness and advanced positioning. Garand will return to the WHL this coming season and should, once again, be among the best goaltenders in the WHL and the CHL.

Dylan Garand – McKeen's Hockey

MCKEEN’S 2026 NHL PROSPECT REPORT – #16 New York Rangers – Organization Overview – Top 15 Prospects

Prospect System Ranking – 16th (Last Year - 17th) GM: Chris Drury Hired: May 2021 COACH: Mike Sullivan Hired: May 2025

Gabe Perreault, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Scott Morrow, D, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Liam Greentree, RW, Windsor Spitfires (OHL)

EJ Emery, D, University of North Dakota (NCAA)

Dylan Roobroeck, C, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Drew Fortescue, D, Boston College (NCAA)

Malcolm Spence, LW, University of Michigan (NCAA)

Nathan Aspinall, LW, Flint Firebirds (OHL)

Aidan Thompson, LW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Jacob Battaglia, RW, Flint Firebirds (OHL)

Adam Sykora, RW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Jaroslav Chmelar, RW, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Dylan Garand, G, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

Ty Henricks, LW, Western Michigan University (NCAA)

Carey Terrance, C, Hartford Wolf Pack (AHL)

NHL: Victor Nuño – DYNASTY STOCK WATCH – New York Rangers Edition

McKeen’s Hockey: Dynasty Stock Watch

New York Rangers Edition

Team Outlook

Buy Candidates

Sell Candidates

Summary

MCKEEN’S 2025-26 NHL YEARBOOK – NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 15 Prospect Profiles – Organizational Rank #17

New York Rangers Top-15 Prospects

1 - Scott Morrow

2 - Gabe Perreault

3 - Brennan Othmann

4 - EJ Emery

5 - Dylan Garand

6 - Malcolm Spence

7 - Carey Terrance

8 - Dylan Roobroeck

9 - Drew Fortescue

10 - Sean Barnhill

11 - Adam Sykora

12 - Noah Laba

13 - Jaroslav Chmelar

14 - Nathan Aspinall

15 - Zeb Lindgren

2025 NHL PROSPECTS REPORT: #19 NEW YORK RANGERS – Top 15 NHL Affiliated Prospects

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

Prospect System Ranking – 16th (Last Year - 17th)
GM: Chris Drury Hired: May 2021
COACH: Mike Sullivan Hired: May 2025

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