With the 2025 NHL Entry Draft quickly approaching, this article will highlight six players in the New York Rangers’ system that are particularly exciting, encompassing both highly touted first-rounders and some surprising later-round selections who are on the rise. The players are listed in no particular order.
Gabriel Perreault
Drafted: 2023, Round 1, 23rd overall
After being drafted out of the National Team Development Program (NTDP) in 2023, Gabriel Perreault has played the last two seasons at Boston College. He put up 60 points in 36 games his freshman season as part of the sensational line with Will Smith (San Jose Sharks) and Ryan Leonard (Washington Capitals). His production dipped slightly this season, although his 48 points in 37 games were still impressive.
When his season ended, he had a tumultuous stint with the Rangers, where he struggled to produce offense and adjust to the pace and physicality of the NHL. While it may take time for Perreault to become a consistent, reliable NHLer, he has progressed very well over the last two years. He has displayed enough offensive skill and creativity to project well as an NHL regular.
Drew Fortescue
Drafted: 2023, Round 3, 90th overall
Like Perreault, Drew Fortescue was drafted out of the NTDP and has played the last two seasons at Boston College. Fortescue has put up four goals and 19 points in 76 career NCAA games. Don’t be alarmed by the lack of offensive production. Fortescue has never been a huge point producer, and that was not the reason the Rangers drafted him. Listed at 6-foot-2 and 180 pounds, Fortescue is a smooth-skating, tough defender who is relied on to make quick outlet passes and shut down the opposition’s best players.
Related: New York Rangers’ Top 10 Prospects for 2024-25
Fortescue is set to return to Boston College for his junior season. If he continues to add strength, his defensive game should translate well to the pro level. The Rangers need a steady, low-risk defenseman who can shut down opposing teams’ top players and advance the puck efficiently, and Fortescue has a good chance to be just that.
Dylan Garand
Drafted: 2020, Round 4, 103rd overall
Dylan Garand is a very exciting goalie prospect at 22 years old. He is listed at 6-foot-1 and 177 pounds and has improved year after year. Last season, he posted an impressive .913 save percentage and 2.73 goals-against average. He has also performed well in big…
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