Rookie, Alberts Smits, makes Rangers' opening | New York Rangers News

SPEAKER_1 (0:00)

Today is September 27th. This is New York Rangers News Today, your AI-powered team coverage. All right, big news for the Rangers as they gear up for NHL opening night. Rookie Albert Smits has officially made the roster, and that's a big deal for the team. He was the fifth overall pick this year, so expectations are high. Smits was seen by many as one of the most NHL-ready prospects in this year's draft class. There was some uncertainty about whether the Rangers would keep him, but that's all been cleared up now.

Gotta love when a young guy proves he belongs, right? Head coach Mike Sullivan made it clear from the start that Smits would have every chance to earn his spot, and he did just that, fitting right into the lineup during rookie scrimmages and pro camp.

Nice to see him showing up when it counts. In preseason play, he really held his own, making it tough for the coaches to leave him off the roster. Now he's ready to kick off his career with the Rangers, which is exciting for everyone involved. So, Smits will start the season on the third pair with Braden Schneider and that should set the tone for his rookie season. Definitely something to keep an eye on as the season unfolds.