New York Rangers reunite former OHL linemates for 2026 development camp

General manager Chris Drury completed a trade with the Calgary Flames that brought prospect Jacob Battaglia to the Rangers, reuniting him with former Flint Firebirds teammates Nathan Aspinall and Darian Anderson. All three players, who formed a top line during the Firebirds’ record 2025‑26 season, were together at the Madison Square Garden Training Center for the Rangers’ 2026 development camp. Aspinall, a fifth‑round 2024 draft pick, and Battaglia are set to begin their first full professional seasons with the Hartford Wolf Pack, while Anderson has committed to play collegiate hockey at Clarkson University for 2026‑27.

The trio highlighted the benefit of familiar teammates during the transition to professional ranks, noting their shared experiences from the OHL playoffs and the importance of continuity in their development path.