Add The New York Post on Google The Rangers got their guy.
With the No. 5 selection in the NHL draft, the Blueshirts drafted Alberts Smits, a defenseman from Latvia.
The 18-year-old has been considered by many as one of the most pro-ready defenders in the 2026 draft class and is set to enter a rather depleted Rangers prospect pool after a series of win-now trades over the past few seasons.
Alberts Smits, left, stands with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, right, after being drafted by the New York Rangers during the NHL hockey draft Friday, June 26, 2026, in Buffalo, N.Y. AP Photo/Adrian Kraus “His future is as bright as it can possibly be,” EHC München coach Oliver David told reporters, according to The Athletic.
“He has a very good ability to get out of the defensive corner. He’s got a great defensive stick to kill plays.
With their highest selection since 2020, the Rangers notably passed up on defenseman Chase Reid, who was one of the top at his position in this year’s draft.
