Rangers Rookie Camp Loaded with Talent | New York Rangers News

Corey (0:00)

On September 9th, the New York Rangers just dropped their rookie camp roster, and it's packed with talent. We're talking about 26 players getting ready to hit the ice, with a couple of games against the Philadelphia Flyers prospects on the schedule this weekend. The big name everyone's watching is Alberts Smits, an 18-year-old defenseman they snagged with a fifth overall pick. I see he's hoping this camp is his ticket to a spot on the main squad. Smits is just one of nine defensemen invited, and he's joined by some other interesting guys. Drew Fortescue, who showed he could hang with the big club last spring, is back.

Then there's Jackson Dorrington, who already played a full season in the American Hockey League. It's a solid mix of fresh faces and guys getting a second look. A few players are making the jump from the AHL team, the Hartford Wolf Pack, to this rookie camp. That includes goalie Callum Tong and forwards like Adam Sykora. Sykora's presence is a bit of a surprise since he's already 22 and entering his fourth pro season, even playing some games with the Rangers last year. His path to the main roster might be a little crowded though. Beyond the guys who played in Hartford, there are some exciting newcomers.

Ford's Liam Greentree, Cole Bodewan, and Jacob Battaglia are all making their first camp appearances after being acquired through trades. Nathan Aspinall, who put up a ton of points in junior hockey last season, is also looking to make a statement. Overall, eight of the Rangers' top 10 prospects are at this rookie camp. They also invited two unsigned players, Dane Buker and Michael Suda, to get a look. It's all about seeing who's ready to step up as the new hockey season gets closer.

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