Rangers Roster Shake-Up Ahead | New York Rangers News

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On September 18th, the New York Rangers are gearing up for their 2026 to 2027 season, and training camp is about to kick off. Rookie camp already saw some tough losses against the Flyers, but now the veterans are reporting. The team looks different this year, with a lot of new faces battling for spots on the opening night roster. One big question is where defenseman Alberts Smits, their fifth overall pick from the 2026 draft, will start his career. While he's considered NHL ready, the Rangers have a solid defense corps now, so he might begin in the AHL to develop further.

The backup goalie position is also wide open after Jonathan Quick retired.

Dylan Garand and Joonas Korpisalo are competing for that spot, with Korpisalo having veteran experience. Garand, however, is no longer waiver exempt, which adds another layer to the decision. Up front, the Rangers added talent to their top six, with players like Pavel Dorofeyev and Alexis Lafreniere set to make an impact.

One spot remains open, with Oliver Bjorkstrand and Ili Tolvinen vying for it against Will Kyle. Finally, all eyes are on JT. Miller. The team needs him to bounce back to his top form to be a contender. He's healthy and back at center, a position he prefers, and with Vincent Trochek gone, he and Mika Zibanejad are crucial for the team's success.

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