Arthur Kaliyev is finding his New York groove

This revelation isn't a surprise. He’s always been a skilled puck carrier, capable of creating space for himself and others, and he has a sense for finding soft spots in the defense. Kaliyev is a constant threat when paired with creative, two-way forwards who can capitalize on his strengths. He also has the poise to make quick decisions under pressure, whether that’s cutting back to find a better angle or moving the puck to a teammate in a more dangerous position.

Before the Blueshirts claimed the 23-year-old off waivers, the 23-year-old had compiled 35 goals and 36 assists in 188 games over four seasons in Los Angeles. He's a one-year deal worth $825,000 and will be a restricted-free agent this summer.

Kaliyev's talent has never been in question. Drafted by the Kings in the second round of the 2019 draft (33rd overall), many considered him a first-round-caliber scorer. His 51 goals and 102 points in his second OHL season with the Hamilton Bulldogs were proof of that.

Kaliyev’s ability to contribute comes from his knack for helping his team maintain puck possession and driving offensive results through smart, consistent play. He does the little things — retrieving pucks, setting up entries, and generating shots from dangerous areas — that may not always stand out, but over the course of a game, they make a significant impact.

Internationally, he shone for Team USA at two different World Juniors (2020, 2021), tallying 14 points in 12 games and earning gold in 2021 alongside Brett Berard, with the pair being coached by Blueshirts assistant coach Dan Muse. Shooting the puck and finishing plays are his bread and butter, but skating has always been a knock on Kaliyev's game, and the Kings grew hesitant to trust him in key roles. Defensively, he’s not as reliable. The 6'2", 209 pound forward is better at controlling play through possession than a physical presence or a forechecker.

He sometimes finds himself on his heels, which means he’s not always in position to make the next play quickly. However, when the Rangers are controlling the puck and dictating play, Kaliyev’s shortcomings are hidden, and the 2001-born winger's ability to keep the puck in the offensive zone becomes a significant asset.

Injuries didn't do the forwards either. A broken foot in December 2023 set him back further, and by the time Jim Hiller replaced Todd McLellan as head coach, those playing opportunities had evaporated. Hiller dressed him in just 13 of 34 games late last season and didn't see the ice in the playoffs against the Edmonton Oilers, signaling the end of the road in Hollywood. Now, with the Rangers, the aspiring youngster has a chance to reset.

As the Rangers push for a playoff spot, sitting just two points out, Kaliyev's presence and contributions are just what they need. His finishing and generating strengths fits perfectly with head coach Peter Laviolette's style. For the waiver-wire pickup, the goal now is consistency.

Should Kaliyev maintain his momentum, the Broadway play might be the fresh start he needed — and the boost the organization were looking for. They're hoping to unlock his scoring potential while helping him round out his game — a low-risk gamble for a middle-six player with plenty of upsides as he hopes to turn from a peasant to a prince and eventually King Arthur.