Rangers Could Break WHL Draft Streak

**Corey** (0:00)
On June 8th, the New York Rangers haven't drafted anyone from the Western Hockey League in the last four years, and the last time they picked a WHL, player in the first round was back in 2020 But this year, that trend could flip entirely. With the fifth overall pick, they're looking at a strong pool of defensemen, and three of them are coming straight from the WHL. This is a big deal because the team's coach has been talking about needing more puck-moving defensemen to complement Adam Fox.
Beyond the WHL prospects, there are also two other highly rated defensemen, Albert Smits from Latvia and Keaton Verhoef from the University of North. Dakota, who could be available? The WHL options include Carson Carels, Daxon Rudolph, and Ryan Lin.
Experts are saying these guys are great at moving the puck and have a good all-around game. Carson Carels in particular is getting a lot of buzz. He's described as having a mature game, playing big minutes, and being incredibly complete, able to generate offense without sacrificing defense.
Carels put up 20 goals and 73 points in 58 games last season and even played in the World Junior Championships as the youngest. Player on the Canadian team, Daxon Rudolph is another offensive force, leading WHL defensemen and goals, though some wonder about his toughness. Ryan Lin also had a strong offensive season from the Blue Line. So, while the Rangers have shied away from the WHL recently, they might be breaking that pattern in a major way at this year's draft. With the fifth pick and potentially another later in the first round, they could be bringing in some serious talent from out west.
I'm Corey with the story and you've been listening to New York Rangers News Today, AI powered team coverage.