The New York Rangers’ picks from the past two NHL Drafts are ready to become Rangers. Here is an in-depth look at their statistics and hockey careers.
There are two young players, in particular, that have kept New York Rangers fans holding their breath until their official addition to the New York roster– they are Vitali Kravtsov and Kaapo Kakko. Both of these players were acquired during the first round of the annual NHL Entry Draft.
Despite Kravtsov and Kakko both being drafted in a little over a year, it’s been agonizing waiting to see them finally skating with the Rangers. Here’s some background information on the Russian and Finnish born players who are expected to transform the team.
Captivating Kravtsov
Back in May of this year, Vitali Kravtsov officially signed with the Rangers, inking an Entry Level Contract with New York. Similar to some other draftees from his class, Kravstov did not make an immediate appearance with his team in the 2018-2019 season. At age 19, his most recent experience includes playing in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) that is based in Russia.
Despite playing out of position, Kravstov assumed the role as a center in the 2019 World Junior U-20 Championships with Russia where he recorded six points in seven games, two of which were goals. Only 11 in the whole tournament put up better numbers than Kravstov. At the conclusion of the tournament, Kravstov, who was named an alternate captain, along with his teammates were awarded third place Bronze medal in the WJC.
While skating for the Chelyabinsk juniors team since 2014, Kravstov had recorded 43 goals and 81 total points in 70 games. Five years later, he is here in the United States to play in New York, and eager to put up statistics in the National Hockey League.
Kravtsov entered the KHL for the 2016-2017 season and in 88 games, scored 12 goals and finished with 28 total points. Although not a remarkable statistic, Kravtsov is a dimensional player who is a strong passer and can drive to net exceptionally well.
In June he was skating with fellow Rangers prospects Adam Fox and Kaapo Kakko at the team’s Prospect Camp. Kravstov was reported as quite the spectacle, outshining the other highly anticipated Rangers, putting his talent on full display.
With the addition of Kravstov and Kakko, the Rangers have a legitimate shot at producing two homegrown franchise players that can possibly remain on the team for the long haul, and this is a very exciting opportunity. Additionally, the upcoming Calder Trophy winner could be a Blueshirt.