New York Rangers' Pavel Dorofeyev sees reduced playoff ice time after costly trade

The New York Rangers acquired right wing Pavel Dorofeyev from the Vegas Golden Knights in the 2026 NHL Draft, surrendering three picks—including two first‑rounders—and immediately signed him to a seven‑year contract worth $11 million per season. Despite the large investment, head coach John Tortorella limited Dorofeyev’s playoff minutes; he ranked 13th in ice time among skaters and seventh among forwards, effectively serving as a fourth‑line player. Nevertheless, Dorofeyev recorded the most power‑play goals in the postseason (five), posted 58 shots on goal, and scored 12 total goals, second only to Brett Howden.

A fan blog analysing the Rangers’ upcoming roster highlighted several players whose roles remain uncertain, naming prospects such as Jaroslav Chmelar, Matthew Robertson, Matt Rempe, Joe Veleno, Noah Laba and Tye Kartye as potential contributors whose impact will shape the team’s chances of reaching the playoffs in the 2026‑27 season.