Rangers pick Alberts Smits at No. 5, betting on a polished, two-way defenseman
TL;DR
The New York Rangers selected Alberts Smits with the No. 5 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, citing his experience facing pros in Liiga and the DEL and his well-rounded two-way game as the key reasons. Scouts praised his size, mobility, and puck-moving ability, and Lilley said Smits fit best on their board among several top defensemen. Smits is expected to sign an entry-level contract and report to training camp in September, with the club aiming to develop him within a deep, young defense corps and determine his NHL readiness based on camp outcomes and roster moves.
Topics:sportsnew-york-rangers-news#alberts-smits#defenseman#new-york-rangers#new-york-rangers-news#nhl-draft-2026#two-way-game
- Why Rangers drafted Alberts Smits with No. 5 pick: ‘top player out of that grouping’ Forever Blueshirts
- New York Rangers NHL Draft picks tracker: Grades, fits and analysis The New York Times
- Rangers 2026 NHL Draft: Every pick and trade made by the Blueshirts SNY
- Analysis Of Prospects The Rangers Drafted From Rounds 2-7 Yahoo Sports
- Alberts Smits selection instantly alters future of Rangers blue line Blue Line Station
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