Rangers' Drew Fortescue using final stretch as learning experience

Rookie defenseman getting valuable ice time ahead of offseason

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:52am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting a hockey player in motion, with sharp geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors representing the speed and intensity of the game.Rookie defenseman Drew Fortescue's late-season playing time with the Rangers provides a glimpse into the team's future as he gains valuable NHL experience.NYC Today

With the Rangers out of playoff contention, rookie defenseman Drew Fortescue is using the final games of the season as a chance to gain valuable experience at the NHL level. Fortescue, the team's 2023 third-round pick, has shown flashes of his potential, recording two assists in six games so far. Head coach Mike Sullivan praised Fortescue's vision and passing ability, but noted the challenges he faces adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NHL game.

Why it matters

Fortescue's late-season playing time is an important step in his development as he looks to earn a full-time roster spot with the Rangers next season. The experience of facing playoff-bound teams like the Stars, Panthers, and Lightning will help prepare him for the rigors of the NHL.

The details

Fortescue, who signed his entry-level deal with the Rangers after his college season at Boston College ended, has recorded six hits and six blocked shots while posting a plus-5 rating in his six games so far. He has skated on the second defensive pairing alongside Braden Schneider. In the Rangers' 5-3 loss to the Sabres on Wednesday, Fortescue recorded an assist on a goal by Alexis Lafrenière, showcasing his vision and passing ability. However, Sullivan noted the challenges Fortescue has faced adjusting to the size and strength of NHL players, especially on the defensive end.

  • Fortescue has played in six games for the Rangers so far.
  • The Rangers have seven games remaining in the regular season.
  • Fortescue is expected to play in the team's final 10 games.

The players

Drew Fortescue

A 2023 third-round draft pick of the Rangers who signed his entry-level deal after his college season at Boston College ended. He is using the final games of the season to gain valuable NHL experience.

Alexis Lafrenière

The Rangers' leading goal scorer this season with 24 goals, just four shy of his career high. He recorded two goals in the team's 5-3 loss to the Sabres on Wednesday.

Mike Sullivan

The head coach of the Rangers, who praised Fortescue's vision and passing ability while also noting the challenges he faces adjusting to the speed and physicality of the NHL game.

Braden Schneider

The Rangers defenseman who has been paired with Fortescue on the team's second defensive pairing.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're gonna play some teams coming up that have a lot of size, and I think defensively, that presents a challenge for a young player — just strength-wise, box-outs, things at the net, things of that nature.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach

“Just so many things that we like about Drew's game that we're excited about. The pass he makes on [Lafrenière's] goal is an example of it. He sees it pretty good. He can pass the puck.”

— Mike Sullivan, Head Coach

What’s next

Fortescue will get a chance to face playoff-bound teams like the Stars, Panthers, and Lightning in the Rangers' final three games, providing him with valuable experience ahead of the offseason.

The takeaway

Fortescue's late-season playing time is an important step in his development as he looks to earn a full-time roster spot with the Rangers next season. The experience of facing top NHL competition will help prepare him for the rigors of the league.