Rangers' Drew Fortescue picks up assist in NHL debut

20-year-old defenseman makes professional debut after signing entry-level contract

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:36am

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Drew Fortescue, a 20-year-old defenseman for the New York Rangers, made his NHL debut on Friday and recorded an assist and two hits in a 6-1 win over the Chicago Blackhawks. Fortescue had previously played 35 games for Boston College, where he put up 14 points, before signing his entry-level deal with the Rangers.

Why it matters

Fortescue's NHL debut is an important milestone in the young defenseman's career as he looks to establish himself at the professional level. The Rangers are hoping Fortescue can develop into a contributor on their blue line in the coming seasons.

The details

In his first NHL game, Fortescue skated in a bottom-four role and recorded an assist and two hits. The 20-year-old defenseman had previously played 35 games for Boston College, where he put up 14 points, before signing his entry-level contract with the Rangers.

  • Fortescue made his NHL debut on Friday, March 28, 2026.

The players

Drew Fortescue

A 20-year-old defenseman who recently signed an entry-level contract with the New York Rangers after playing 35 games for Boston College, where he recorded 14 points.

New York Rangers

The NHL team that Drew Fortescue currently plays for after signing his entry-level contract.

Boston College

The NCAA Division I hockey program where Drew Fortescue played prior to turning professional.

Chicago Blackhawks

The NHL team that the New York Rangers defeated 6-1 in the game where Drew Fortescue made his NHL debut.

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What’s next

Fortescue will likely continue to see limited minutes in a bottom-four role for the Rangers as he looks to establish himself at the NHL level. He may also spend some time in the AHL next season to further develop his game.

The takeaway

Drew Fortescue's NHL debut is an exciting milestone for the young defenseman as he begins his professional career. The Rangers are hoping he can develop into a contributor on their blue line in the coming seasons.