New York Rangers finalize roster ahead of NHL regular season

The New York Rangers are finalizing their roster ahead of the regular season, facing complex decisions regarding waiver eligibility and player development. Head coach Mike Sullivan noted that the need to keep certain players, such as goalie Dylan Garand, from being claimed on waivers could influence final roster selections.

Prospects are making significant impacts during the preseason. Defenseman Scott Morrow and 18-year-old rookie Alberts Smits have both shown strong performances, with Smits potentially securing a spot on the opening-night roster. Meanwhile, the team has assigned Liam Greentree and Cole Beaudoin to the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL to begin their professional careers.

In preseason matchups against the New York Islanders, the Rangers have utilized near-full opening-night lineups, including starter Igor Shesterkin. The Islanders have also seen key players like Alexander Romanov and Ryan Pulock return to action following shoulder surgeries.