Rangers Rookies Shine in Rout of Blackhawks

Sykora, Fortescue make home debuts as New York ends six-game skid

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:00am

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The New York Rangers ended a six-game losing streak with a 6-1 victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday night. Rookie Adam Sykora scored his first career goal in his home debut, while fellow newcomer Drew Fortescue recorded an assist in his NHL debut. J.T. Miller, Matthew Robertson, Jonny Brodzinski, and Alexis Lafreniere also found the back of the net for the Rangers, who got a 28-save performance from rookie goaltender Dylan Garand for his first career win.

Why it matters

The strong showing by the Rangers' young players provides a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for the team, which sits outside the playoff picture. The contributions from Sykora and Fortescue in particular offer hope for the future as the organization looks to rebuild around its promising prospects.

The details

Sykora, who had 12 goals with the Rangers' AHL affiliate in Hartford, gave the home team a 3-1 lead in the second period by finishing off an odd-man rush. Fortescue, making his NHL debut, recorded an assist on Brodzinski's second goal of the night in the third period. Miller, Robertson, Brodzinski, and Lafreniere also scored for the Rangers, who chased Blackhawks goalie Arvid Soderblom after he allowed six goals on 39 shots.

  • Sykora scored his first career goal in the second period.
  • Fortescue recorded an assist in his NHL debut in the third period.
  • The Rangers ended a season-worst six-game losing streak with the win.

The players

Adam Sykora

A Rangers rookie who scored his first career goal in his home debut, after tallying 12 goals with the team's AHL affiliate in Hartford.

Drew Fortescue

A Rangers rookie who recorded an assist in his NHL debut.

J.T. Miller

A Rangers forward who scored the tying goal late in the first period and added two assists.

Dylan Garand

The Rangers' rookie goaltender who made 28 saves and earned his first career win.

Arvid Soderblom

The Blackhawks' goaltender who allowed six goals on 39 shots in the loss.

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What they’re saying

“We've had a tough stretch, so it was great to see the young guys step up and contribute. That's what we're building towards here.”

— Gerard Gallant, Rangers Head Coach

What’s next

The Rangers will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot, while the Blackhawks will aim to bounce back in their next game.

The takeaway

The strong performances by the Rangers' rookies, including Sykora's first career goal and Fortescue's debut assist, provided a much-needed boost for the team as it tries to turn around a disappointing season. The contributions of these young players offer hope for the future in New York.