Smits Shines in Rangers Camp | New York Rangers News

Corey (0:00)

On September 18, 18-year-old defenseman, Alberts Smits, made his New York Rangers practice debut this week, even skating with the top six. Defense group. While it's not a guarantee he'll make the final roster, it shows the team is giving him a real chance to impress during training camp. Coach Mike Sullivan noted Smits looked comfortable and passed the puck with the crispness you'd expect from an NHL player. The Rangers have options if Smits isn't quite ready for the big leagues.

Matthew Robertson, who had a strong rookie season, is a likely candidate to start as Smits' partner if Smits heads to the American Hockey League. Veteran Urho Vaakanainen is also in the mix, potentially as an extra defenseman or even finding himself on the outside looking in depending on how. Things shake out.

This approach of giving young talent a fair shot is a smart move by the Rangers' organization. It allows players like Smits to prove themselves on a level playing field, and it's up to him to seize the opportunity presented during camp. We'll be watching to see how he performs with this chance. Meanwhile, other NHL teams are dealing with their own training camp storylines. The Carolina Hurricanes are seeing forward Seth Jarvis back on the ice after shoulder surgery while defenseman Alexander Nikishen is reportedly still, pushing for a trade. In Winnipeg, the Jets are feeling the impact of Connor Hellebuyck's trade request and the New Jersey Devils are facing injuries to Nick Bugstad and Jonathan Kovacevich. Alex Ovechkin, entering his 22nd season, sounds energized by the Washington Capitals offseason additions. The San Jose Sharks have extended coach Ryan Warsofsky's contract and the Ottawa Senators have invited veteran defenseman Ben Hutton to camp on a PTO.

The Florida Panthers' Jonah Gadjovich remains sidelined and definitely following knee surgery. Stay locked in with New York Rangers News Today, AI powered updates. I'm Corey with the story.