The New York Rangers’ 2025-26 season opener is almost here, and the roster is set—but not without a few surprises and bold moves. From veteran signings to unexpected breakouts, this lineup has it all. But here’s where it gets controversial: can this team truly contend, or are they just treading water? Let’s dive into the details, player by player, and explore the stories behind this season’s starting 23.
Forwards (14):
Jonny Brodzinski — While some fans clamored for a younger, flashier option, the Rangers opted for reliability. At 32, Brodzinski isn’t the flashiest player, but his ability to step in after long stretches on the bench and deliver solid minutes makes him invaluable. Plus, his versatility across center and both wings is a coach’s dream.
Sam Carrick — This 33-year-old center flew under the radar during camp, but his steady performance as last season’s fourth-line anchor earned him a spot. Don’t expect fireworks, but consistency is his game.
Will Cuylle — Talk about a breakout! Cuylle, just 23, is stepping into the massive void left by Chris Kreider’s trade to Anaheim. As the franchise’s only member of the 20-goal, 300-hit club, he’s got the tools—but can he handle the pressure?
Adam Edström — A promising rookie season was cut short by injury, but Edström is back and ready to unleash havoc in Mike Sullivan’s aggressive forechecking system. If he stays healthy, he could be a game-changer.
Noah Laba — And this is the part most people miss: Laba, a 2022 fourth-round pick, wasn’t even supposed to make the roster this year. But his standout camp—leading the team with 6 preseason points—forced the Rangers’ hand. At 6-foot-3 and 213 pounds, he’s a blend of speed, strength, and defensive smarts that has fans dreaming of a long-term third-line center.
Alexis Lafrenière — The former No. 1 pick is tired of hearing about last season’s struggles, but the questions won’t go away until he proves he’s back to his 57-point form. At 24, the clock is ticking.
J.T. Miller — Naming Miller captain was a gamble. His “No B.S.” style could energize a team that looked lifeless at times last year, but his history of baggage raises eyebrows. Can he lead without drama?
Artemi Panarin — The Rangers’ offensive powerhouse enters a contract year with lingering camp injuries. At 33, he’s still their scoring leader, but Chris Drury’s reluctance to extend him hints at bigger plans for 2026. Will this be his last dance in New York?
Juuso Pärssinen — Outplayed by Laba for the 3C role, Pärssinen is a healthy scratch for the opener. Still, the Rangers kept him to protect their thin center depth—a move that could backfire if he doesn’t step up.
Taylor Raddysh — Signed to a two-year deal, Raddysh was penciled in as the third-line right wing, but his quiet camp has some wondering if he’ll hold off the young guns from Hartford.
Matt Rempe — The towering 23-year-old is still raw, but his strides in pace and defensive play have earned him a fourth-line spot. If he can harness his exuberance, he could be a fan favorite.
Conor Sheary — At 33, Sheary’s “dog on a bone” style earned him a roster spot after just a few days of camp. His connection to Sullivan from Pittsburgh days didn’t hurt, but he’s here on merit.
Vincent Trocheck — Passed over for the captaincy, Trocheck remains the team’s heartbeat. The Rangers need the 77-point version from 2023-24, not last season’s step-back player. Can he rebound?
Mika Zibanejad — Once a star, Zibanejad’s play has slipped for two years. A late-season switch to right wing sparked a 33-point surge, but if he can’t sustain it, the Rangers’ ceiling drops dramatically.
Defensemen (7):
Will Borgen — A five-year, $20.5 million extension after a midseason trade shows the Rangers’ faith in Borgen. But his impact waned last season, and he’ll need to rebound to justify that contract.
Adam Fox — Coming off a down year by his standards, Fox is still the Rangers’ best defenseman. His 55.7% xGF last season was nearly 8 points above the next closest teammate—a reminder of his value.
Vladislav Gavrikov — The Rangers’ big offseason splash, Gavrikov’s shutdown abilities should pair perfectly with Fox. At 29, he’s in his prime and ready to anchor the blue line.
Matthew Robertson — Once a highly touted prospect, Robertson’s stock has fizzled. He’s the last man standing among underwhelming depth defensemen, but can he finally live up to his potential?
Braden Schneider — Sullivan believes Schneider has a higher ceiling, but he’s still easing back from labrum surgery. Starting on the bottom pair, he’ll need to prove he’s worth the 2020 first-round pick.
Carson Soucy — Acquired for a 2025 third-round pick, Soucy struggled in Vancouver, but Drury is giving him a chance to redeem himself. If he fails, Schneider could shift to the left side sooner than expected.
Urho Vaakanainen — Another Drury acquisition, Vaakanainen earned a two-year extension but faces pressure from Scott Morrow. His spot on the bottom pair isn’t guaranteed for long.
Goalies (2):
Igor Shesterkin — The NHL’s best goalie, according to The Athletic, Shesterkin’s numbers dipped last season—but he faced the second-toughest workload in the league. With a better defense in front of him, he could return to Vezina form.
Jonathan Quick — At 39, Quick may be in his final season. While he had standout moments, his .893 SV% last year raises questions about his consistency. Can he hold down the fort behind Shesterkin?
The Big Question: With a mix of proven veterans, unproven prospects, and players on the rebound, this Rangers team is a wildcard. But here’s the real debate: Is this roster built for a deep playoff run, or are they just buying time until 2026? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think this lineup can contend, or is it a bridge to something bigger?
