New York Rangers: Comparing players under 25 to other NHL pros

Brady Skjei – Alex Pietrangelo

Alex Pietrangelo has carved out quite the resume as a two-way defender for the St. Louis Blues. Pietrangelo, built on a solid 6-foot-3 frame, can play on both sides of the red line, contributing offensively both by pinching in the play, as well as using his shot from the point.

As well as on the defensive end of the game.

Brady Skjei stepped into his rookie season last year without high expectations. Skjei put up a convincing 39 points and really helped the Rangers on the back end. The Minnesota-native stands at 6-foot-3 and shares quite a few traits with his counterpart Pietrangelo.

Skjei’s excellent skating ability allows him to attack and step into the rush. This helps create chances for the Rangers while also protecting them in case of a turnover.

The one thing that Skjei has done way better than Pietrangelo at this point in his career is his physical activity on the ice. In his rookie season alone, Skjei generated 147 hits, whereas Pietrangelo put up 57 in his rookie campaign.

On a vastly improved defensive corp, Skjei can take quick steps to a two-way defenseman, just like Pietrangelo.