New York Rangers: Five thriving late picks from the last two drafts

From Henrik Lundqvist to Pavel Buchnevich, the New York Rangers and their fans know the value of a top notch late draft pick. Even the most successful teams miss with most of their picks past the first two rounds, though. It’s still early, but the Rangers boast some interesting names from the lower rounds of the last two drafts.

With the exception of  goalie Igor Shestyorkin, New York’s 2014 and 2015 draft crops aren’t looking too hot. Jeff Gorton and company appear to have turned things around in 2016 and 2017, though. First rounders Lias Andersson and Filip Chytil obviously help, but let’s focus outside the top 62 picks.

The Rangers made 11 picks in the third round and beyond over the last two years. They’re not all thriving and most won’t reach the NHL. Even the ones that will make it are a few seasons away from skating at Madison Square Garden.

But a handful of these selections have put up some big numbers to start the season. Ranger fans should keep an eye on these five late picks from 2016 and 2017.