EJ Emery’s Rise as Rangers’ Top Prospect | New York Rangers News

Corey (0:00)

On September 8th, the New York Rangers have a promising prospect in EJ Emery, a defenseman they picked 30th overall in the 2024 NHL draft. He's already ranked number five in the team's prospect pipeline, according to The Athletic. This 20-year-old is making serious moves on the ice, showing significant development since his freshman year at the University of North Dakota. Last season, Emery really stepped up his game. He finished with three goals and 13 points and 38 games, helping his team reach the frozen four. He credits this improvement to putting on some size and working hard on his puck protection and touches, feeling a noticeable difference throughout the season. His coaches and teammates are seeing it too.

Assistant coach Dylan Simpson believes Emery was one of the best defenders in their league this past year, highlighting his quickness and ability to shut down opponents.

Teammate Keaton Verhoef also pointed out how Emery uses his size, speed and reach effectively during the rush and getting back quickly. Scouts are looking for him to continue developing his hockey sense, but Simpson has already seen growth in that area. Emery's also been focused on adding muscle, gaining 10 pounds and feeling the benefits in his skating and ability to box out opponents. The goal is to become an even more physically imposing defenseman. All signs point to a bright future for EJ Emery. He's got the talent, the work ethic and the drive to keep improving. It's exciting to see how he'll continue to develop and what role he'll eventually play for the Rangers.

That's your update from New York Rangers News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with the story.