New York Rangers focus on prospect development and new DAZN streaming deal

New York Rangers prospect development Alberts Smits DAZN streaming Chris Drury

The New York Rangers are confronting a lag in turning recent high draft picks into NHL impact players. Analysts note that despite strong draft positioning, the club has struggled to develop talent, prompting greater scrutiny of GM Chris Drury’s rebuilding strategy.

Top prospect Alberts Smits, the No. 5 overall pick from Latvia, is highlighted for his mature attitude and physical play demonstrated at the Milan‑Cortina Olympics, where he impressed by battling elite competition. The Rangers intend to integrate him gradually, likely on the third defensive pairing behind Vladislav Gavrikov and Marcus Pettersson.

In a parallel fan‑experience move, the Rangers (along with other MSG‑affiliated teams) will shift their streaming service from the Gotham Sports App to the global platform DAZN. YES Network president Jon Litner said the partnership aims to improve live‑sports delivery for subscribers. The migration is slated for the 2026‑27 season and will be offered at no extra cost to cable‑bundle customers.

Entities

Alberts Smits · Chris Drury · Cole Eiserman · DAZN · Gabe Perreault · Jon Litner · Liam Greentree · New York Islanders · New York Rangers

Sources

NHL Prospect Pool Overview '26-27: New York Rangers Are Failing At Player Development [thehockeynews.com]

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