The NHL Draft is just weeks away and the New York Rangers have to plan their picks
The New York Rangers have ten picks in the upcoming NHL Entry Draft and it’s the opportunity to fill holes in the roster. It’s worth taking a look at the depth of the players under contract and the prospect pool as it will provide a glimpse into the Rangers’ strategy as they prepare for the draft.
First, let’s say that there are no gaping holes in the organization. There are issues with roster depth, but it’s mostly depending on how far prospects are from making a meaningful role on the major league roster.
A recent article in The Athletic (subscription required) looking at roster needs for all NHL teams mentioned that the team is light in goal. That may be a surprise considering the three headed goalie predicament the team is currently in and considering that the team has three decent prospects in the pipeline, but it also shows how strong the New Yorik Rangers really are.
Let’s go through the entire organization, position by position.
Goaltenders
One of the three goalies at the NHL level will be gone by the beginning of the season and it appears it will be Henrik Lundqvist. If the team goes with Igor Shesterkin and Alexandar Georgiev, they will have a goaltending tandem that will be equal of any in the NHL.
Adam Huska showed some potential with Hartford this season and will face a heavier workload this season. Tyler Wall was one of the best collegiate goalies and needs to prove that he can play at the same level as a pro.
Olof Lindbom was a controversial second round 2018 draft pick and has been hampered by injuries for the last two seasons. It has to be disappointing that he hasn’t graduated to the Swedish Hockey League and is playing one level below in the Allsvenskan League. He just turned 20 so it is much to early to give up on him, but this season will be key.
NHL level
- Igor Shesterkin – NHL
- Henrik Lundqvist – NHL
- Alexandar Georgiev – NHL
NHL potential
- Adam Huska – AHL
- Tyler Wall – AHL
Pure prospect
- Olof Lindbom – SHL
Transaction and draft potential
The Rangers will need to trade for or sign a veteran goalie they can then expose in the Seattle expansion draft. J.F. Berube filled that role in the AHL last season, but he is a free agent. In the draft, look for the Rangers to try to unearth another late round goalie gem in the tradition of Lundqvist and Shesterkin.