Every Rangers fan knows that Oliver Bjorkstrand is just a placeholder in their top six. Sure, he is projected to be a second-line winger on opening night, but with him having only one year on his deal, he is not a part of the Rangers' long-term plans. He may not be able to hold that spot throughout the entirety of the season. That spot will most likely go to one of the young players in the Blueshirt organization. While there are many players gunning for that spot, the two most likely candidates are Will Cuylle and Liam Greentree. It will be one of the most intriguing battles to follow.
Who is a better fit on the second line Will Cuylle or Liam Greentree?
Out of the two, Cuylle has the slight advantage over Greentree because Cuylle is an established NHL player. He has been one of the most exciting forwards on the Rangers for the past few seasons. Ever since his 45-point breakout season in 2024-25, the Blueshirts have seen him as an important piece of the roster. He is likely viewed as a key piece of the team's future. He is one of the guys that Chris Drury never considered moving at the deadline.
However, what should worry fans about Cuylle is how he performed in the top six this past season. Most of his production last season came when he was playing with the third line. When he was playing on the second line, he struggled to generate offense. The top six is supposed to be the main offensive drivers; if Cuylle struggles with offense, he can't play there. With his skill set, he is best suited to play in the bottom six on a shutdown defensive-first line.
While Greentree is still an unproven prospect, his skill set fits the top six much better than Cuylle. He is coming off a very solid season in the OHL. In 52 games, he logged 38 goals and 36 assists for 74 points. Sure, it is down from the 119 points he put up in 2024-25, but he also played in 12 fewer games. Throughout his time, he has been praised for his shot. His hard, accurate shot has turned him into a shot-first player. He also has great hands, which help move the offense.
There was a sort of hesitation among #NYR fans to embrace Liam Greentree
— Foley (@NHLFoley) May 1, 2026
Y'all - be excited! Yes he was 20 in the OHL but he was also a consistent impact who pushed play. AHL will be a timely test for the former first-rounder. https://t.co/jpTx4vcyDe pic.twitter.com/SfTCJHvYjU
The Rangers will also not be losing physicality by putting Greentree in the top six over Cuylle. Sure, he is not overly physical. He's not going to run someone over or lay out a big hit. But his 6'3", 216-pound frame keeps him from getting pushed around. This will bring a bit of an edge to the Rangers' top six. If his shot translates, he is the perfect player to have alongside guys like J.T. Miller and Alexis Lafrenière. He can be the pest and finisher of the line.
Regardless of who gets the spot it's going to be a story that follows the Rangers all season. The only way for one of them to get it, is to show they can be a constantly contributor on the ice.
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