New York Rangers 2025 NHL Draft: Day Two Haul Yields Promising Prospects

After a quiet Day One, the New York Rangers made their presence felt on Day Two of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, selecting eight players across rounds two through seven. The team focused heavily on defensemen, adding size and mobility to their prospect pipeline.

A Day Two Focus on Defense

The Rangers’ Day Two draft strategy prioritized defensemen, selecting five out of their eight picks at that position. This suggests a conscious effort to bolster their defensive depth, addressing a perceived need for size and skating ability on the blue line. While the team also drafted two wingers and a center, the emphasis on defensemen dominated their selections.

Notable Day Two Selections

Here’s a look at some of the Rangers’ key Day Two selections:

• Malcolm Spence (2nd Round, #43): A highly-rated prospect, Spence was considered by some analysts to be a first-round talent. His selection represents excellent value for the Rangers.

• Sean Barnhill (3rd Round, #70): A large, skilled defenseman with strong skating ability, Barnhill fits the Rangers’ preference for sizable, mobile defenders.

• Zeb Lindgren (5th Round, #139): Another defenseman with size and impressive skating skills, Lindgren adds further depth to the Rangers’ defensive prospect pool.

• Evan Passmore (6th Round, #171): A large defenseman with good skating ability, Passmore offers potential for future development.

Notable Absences: Trades and Center Depth

While the Rangers were active on Day Two, the absence of trades was notable. The team’s limited cap space and the ongoing contract situations of Will Cuylle and K’Andre Miller likely contributed to their decision to avoid making any trades during the draft. Additionally, the team’s focus on defensemen left their center depth relatively unaddressed, a factor that may be handled through free agency signings.

Metropolitan Division Draft Recap

The Rangers were not alone in having a busy Day Two. Other Metropolitan Division teams also made significant moves, as outlined below:

• Carolina Hurricanes: Made several shrewd picks, acquiring highly-skilled prospect Ivan Ryabkin and adding a goaltender to their system.

• Columbus Blue Jackets: After a strong Day One, added depth to their defensive corps and selected center Owen Griffin, a high-scoring OHL playoff performer.

• New York Islanders: Continued their strong draft, selecting several high-value players, including Sam Laurilia and goaltender Burke Hood.

• New Jersey Devils: Made up for their lack of Day One picks, drafting winger Ben Kevan and goaltender Trenton Bennett.

• Philadelphia Flyers: Prioritized size in their selections, adding significant height to their forward and defensive prospect pools.

• Pittsburgh Penguins: Made numerous selections, focusing on both physical and skilled players, including Gabriel D’aigle and Travis Hayes. They also made a trade with the Buffalo Sabres.

• Washington Capitals: Highlighted their Day Two selections by drafting Milton Gastrin, a highly-skilled player considered a potential first-round talent.

Other Notable NHL Trades

Beyond the draft, several notable trades occurred, including:

• John Gibson traded from Anaheim to Detroit.

• Jordan Spence traded from Los Angeles to Ottawa.

Conclusion: A Building Year for the Rangers

The Rangers’ 2025 NHL Draft Day Two displayed a clear focus on adding defensive depth and size to their prospect pool. The absence of trades reflects their current cap constraints and ongoing contract negotiations. While the team’s center depth remains a consideration, their Day Two selections provide a foundation for future development and potential NHL contributions. The success of these picks will be determined in the years to come.