AnalysisChris Drury is the general manager of the Rangers. Bruce Bennett / Getty ImagesJune 26, 2026 6:00 am EDT Updated The New York Rangers have 11 picks in the 2026 NHL Draft: Nos. 5, 26, 64, 67, 77, 81, 92, 131, 162, 163, 193. Here’s what to expect.View from the beatThe Rangers haven’t used a first-round pick on a center since 2017. But for a team with needs all over and very few elite talents in its pipeline, the focus should be on the best player available. After years of overcorrecting in the grit direction under team president Chris Drury, the key will be uncovering prospects who can infuse the organization with the scoring and skating it needs to keep pace in today’s NHL. — Vincent Z. MercoglianoPronman’s team needsGabe Perreault is an exceptionally intelligent winger with high-end offensive sense, and E.J. Emery is an athletic, competitive defender. The Rangers’ system has pieces on the flanks and the back end, but the middle of the ice remains a major need. They need a play-driving center. Will they get one at No. 5, or opt for one of the premium defense prospects?
Names to watchIn recent mock drafts, Corey Pronman has projected the following picks:5. Carson Carels, D26. Jack Hextall, C64. Beckett Hamilton, C67. Egor Barabanov, C77. Dmitri Borichev, G81. Luke Schairer, D92. Ola Palme, D131. Kayden Lemire, RW162. Harrison Boettiger, G163. Ossi Tukio, D193. Andrei Bykov, CJun 26, 2026Connections: Sports EditionSpot the pattern. Connect the termsFind the hidden link between sports terms
