New York Rangers bolster defense with multiple draft picks including Latvian top pick Albert Smits

The New York Rangers used the 2026 NHL Draft to address a depleted prospect pool on the blue line, selecting five left‑handed defensemen. Their first‑round pick, Albert Smits, was taken fifth overall, becoming the highest‑drafted Latvian player in league history. Smits, a 6‑foot‑3, 210‑lb defender with a strong international résumé, logged two assists in four games at the 2026 Winter Olympics and posted 13 points in 38 games in Finland’s Liiga.

In the second round the Rangers chose Benjamin McBeath (64th overall) from the WHL, who described the selection as “a whirlwind of emotions” and praised the opportunity to develop at the University of Denver. The team also added Charlie Morrison (77th overall) from the QMJHL, goaltender Danai Shaikov (67th overall) following a recommendation from scout Scott Clemensen, and later selections including forward Spencer Bowes and right‑winger Darian Anderson. Director of player personnel John Lilley noted the strategy of accumulating left‑handed defensemen to secure the best available talent, while team president Chris Drury emphasized the need to reinforce both defense and goaltending ahead of upcoming roster changes.