Well, the New York Rangers now have a decision to make. Now that the Rangers know they’ll have the No. 12 pick in this year’s draft, they have to decide whether they’re going to hold onto it or take the risk that comes with giving up an unprotected pick next — potentially to now current Head Coach Mike Sullivan's former team of Pittsburgh.
The Blueshirts entered the lottery with a 3% chance to land the No. 1 overall pick. Instead fellow-city rival, the New York Islanders, landed the top selection in this year’s draft, making a big jump from the 10th spot. The Islanders had only slightly better odds at 3.5 percent to move up to No. 1, but the ping-pong balls bounced their way. Flashing back to the Rangers — since their pick is top-13 protected, the Rangers can keep it this season and then send an unprotected 2026 first-round pick to the Penguins, or give this year’s pick to Pittsburgh and retain their 2026 selection in the first round.
But, time is of the essence.
The Rangers have until 48 hours before the draft on June 27 to inform the Penguins of their decision. But, that begs the question — who could they pick at No. 12 (for the sixth time in program history) if they retain their selection?
Here's a look at two key options.
2. Roger McQueen
Ka-chow.
Roger McQueen is a forward for the Brandon Wheat Kings of the Western Hockey League (WHL). An explosive player, McQueen put up 11 points (eight goals, three assists) in his first eight games of the WHL season.
Standing at 6'5" and weighing 197 pounds, the center's play style is marked by his accuracy. He focuses more on wearing down opponents and extending possessions than on putting pucks in dangerous areas.
Most currently project him going somewhere within the later numbers of the top 10; but should he be on the board by No. 12 there's no reason he couldn't be a fellow Blueshirt. His combination of size and skill would be a great addition to the prospect pipeline, and the Rangers could use a center of his caliber in the future.
1. Brady Martin
Nobody’s stock is hotter coming out of U18 worlds than Brady Martin. The hard-hitting, ultra-intense center blends some point production with an incredible never-quit, rough and tumble brand that screams “fan favorite” down the road much like Matt Rempe.
Martin, a 6'0", 174-pound right-shot center, and is one of the fastest rising prospects within the 2025 NHL Draft class. Playing for the Soo Greyhounds in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), the 18-year-old has put himself on the map as one of his team’s top players, nearly tripling his point totals from his rookie year (28 to 72) in roughly the same number of games.
Known as a forechecking wrecking ball, his relentless energy, physicality, and well-rounded skill set had initial projections placing him as a potential top-20 pick — perfect for the Rangers with No. 12.
Plus, it'd be fun to see him paired with fellow youngsters Brett Berard and Gabe Perreault.