New York's prospect pool has risen to the 24th spot in the 2025 NHL Pipeline Rankings, earning a 2026 draft grade of B‑. The organization’s blend of skill and compete suggests a steady flow of NHL‑ready talent despite the ongoing rebuild.
A standout defenseman emerges
Alberts Šmits has quickly become the most talked‑about blue‑liner in the system. His mobility and offensive instincts allow him to quarterback the power play while his high‑end shot creates chances from the point. Though his skating is NHL‑average, his hockey sense and positioning compensate, projecting him as a top‑pairing defenseman with the potential to anchor the second defensive pairing.
Cole Beaudoin offers a different kind of impact. The hard‑working center combines NHL‑average puck skills with a relentless work ethic, making him a reliable third‑line option. His physicality and compete level help him win battles in the corners, providing depth that can shift the momentum in tight games.
Forwards with upside and questions
Liam Greentree brings above‑average puck handling and a dangerous shot, but his skating remains a limiting factor, likely confining him to a middle‑six wing role. Nathan Aspinall, a tall left winger, excels in small‑man plays and should contribute offensively in similar depth spots. Malcolm Spence adds tenacity and a willingness to battle, fitting the mold of a gritty middle‑six forward.
Tomas Chrenko’s offensive skill set could earn him a middle‑six center slot, though defensive reliability will be scrutinized. Carey Terrance, despite solid skating and compete, lacks vision and may settle into a bottom‑lineup role. Dylan Roobroeck’s size and physical presence are appealing, but his gangly skating keeps him projected as a depth forward.
Mikkel Eriksen and Jacob Battaglia round out the mix with creative flair and high‑end shot potential, each expected to contribute on the power play or in bottom‑six positions. EJ Emery’s gap control and skating could unlock a full‑time defensive role if he secures a consistent outlet, while Charlie Morrison offers a physical defensive option as a backup.
Between the pipes, Danai Shaiikov shows NHL‑caliber athleticism but inconsistency, leaving the organization hopeful that his upside can be unlocked with proper development. The Rangers’ pipeline, while still a work in progress, is positioning itself to deliver more reliable NHL talent as the rebuild matures.