Rangers rookie Gabe Perreault records hat trick in win over Red Wings

The 20-year-old first-round pick became the fourth Rangers rookie in the past 30 years to record a hat trick.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:23am

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Gabe Perreault, one of the Rangers' most promising young players, recorded his first career hat trick in Saturday's 4-1 win over the Red Wings at Madison Square Garden. Perreault, a 20-year-old former first-round pick, became the fourth Rangers rookie in the past 30 years to record a hat trick, and one of five rookies in the league to do so this season. His three multi-goal games this season are tied for second most among NHL rookies despite appearing in only 45 games.

Why it matters

Perreault's hat trick performance adds to the optimism surrounding the Rangers' young core of players, providing a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for the team. The Rangers have struggled at home this year, making Perreault's heroics in front of the home crowd even more meaningful.

The details

Perreault opened the scoring in the second period, breaking an 11-game goal drought with a shot over John Gibson's glove. He then added two more goals in the third period, with assists from Jonny Brodzinski and captain J.T. Miller. The game also featured 31 saves from goaltender Jonathan Quick and a goal from fellow Rangers rookie Jaroslav Chmelar.

  • Perreault scored his first career hat trick on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
  • Perreault's three multi-goal games this season have come despite him appearing in only 45 games.

The players

Gabe Perreault

A 20-year-old forward and former first-round pick for the New York Rangers, who recorded his first career hat trick in Saturday's win over the Red Wings.

J.T. Miller

The captain of the New York Rangers, who praised Perreault's development and the trust he has earned from his coaches and teammates.

Jonathan Quick

The goaltender for the New York Rangers, who made 31 saves in the win over the Red Wings.

Jaroslav Chmelar

A Rangers rookie who scored the opening goal in the first period, his fourth goal of the season and second in the past three games.

Mike Sullivan

The head coach of the New York Rangers, who praised Perreault's hockey IQ and ability to find success despite not having elite open-ice speed.

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What they’re saying

“The trust that he's earning from his coaches and his teammates, he's becoming a great player right in front of us. It's exciting to think he's 20 years old. He's only gonna get stronger and better and faster, and what he's been able to do for us is really impressive. He's just got a really good nose for the game and he's super smart and has that skill when he gets a chance to make some plays.”

— J.T. Miller, Captain, New York Rangers

“I think the game is slowing down in his mind and his hockey IQ is probably his greatest attribute. He might not have the open-ice foot speed but he's pretty elusive in traffic. With his vision and his brain and his stick skills, he's finding ways to have success.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach, New York Rangers

“He was my favorite player growing up. I looked up to him. On that first draw, I'm like, 'Holy sh--t, I'm next to Patrick Kane.'”

— Gabe Perreault

What’s next

The Rangers will look to build on Perreault's hat trick performance as they play their final home game of the season on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

The takeaway

Gabe Perreault's hat trick showcases the promising future of the Rangers' young core, providing a rare bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for the team. The 20-year-old's development and growing impact on the team has generated excitement among fans and the organization alike.