Tye Kartye makes instant splash in Rangers debut

Newly acquired forward impresses in first game with New York after being claimed off waivers

Mar. 3, 2026 at 2:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Tye Kartye, a 24-year-old forward, made his debut for the New York Rangers just 25.5 hours after being claimed off waivers from another team. Despite the quick turnaround, Kartye made an immediate impact, registering two shots on goal and playing a physical, forechecking style in 12:39 of ice time. Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan praised Kartye's motor and ability to disrupt the opposition, saying he envisions Kartye contributing on the penalty kill moving forward.

Why it matters

The Rangers have been actively looking to add young, high-upside players to their roster, and Kartye fits that mold. His quick adaptation and strong first game suggest he could be a valuable addition to the Rangers' bottom-six forward group as they push for a playoff spot.

The details

Kartye found out the Rangers claimed him off waivers around 11 a.m. on Friday, and just 25.5 hours later, he made his debut for the Blueshirts at Madison Square Garden. Lining up on the third line with Noah Laba and Brendan Brisson, Kartye recorded two shots on goal and played a physical, forechecking style in 12:39 of ice time. Head coach Mike Sullivan was impressed with Kartye's motor and ability to disrupt the opposition, and said he anticipates using Kartye on the penalty kill moving forward.

  • Kartye found out the Rangers claimed him off waivers around 11 a.m. on Friday.
  • Kartye made his Rangers debut just 25.5 hours later, on Saturday afternoon.

The players

Tye Kartye

A 24-year-old forward who was recently claimed off waivers by the New York Rangers.

Mike Sullivan

The head coach of the New York Rangers.

Chris Drury

The general manager of the New York Rangers.

Noah Laba

A forward who played on the third line with Tye Kartye in his Rangers debut.

Brendan Brisson

A forward who played on the third line with Tye Kartye in his Rangers debut.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“It was pretty crazy. Hustled to make a 2:45 p.m. flight, packed what I could and then got here. It was kind of nice, just slept, woke up and came to play.”

— Tye Kartye

“[Kartye] came as advertised. [General manager Chris Drury] talked to me about his motor and his ability to help us in the puck pursuit game, getting in on the forecheck, disrupting plays, making it hard on opponents' breakout options, things of that nature. He has some physicality to his game.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach

What’s next

The Rangers will continue to evaluate Tye Kartye's performance and role with the team as he settles in. Head coach Mike Sullivan said he anticipates using Kartye on the penalty kill moving forward, once they've had a chance to work with him more on that aspect of the game.

The takeaway

The Rangers' quick acquisition and successful debut of Tye Kartye demonstrates their commitment to adding young, high-energy players who can contribute to their bottom-six forward group and provide depth as the team pushes for a playoff spot. Kartye's strong first impression suggests he could be a valuable addition to the Blueshirts' lineup.