Rangers acquire Pavel Dorofeyev; Golden Knights lose key player in trade

The New York Rangers traded for Pavel Dorofeyev during the NHL draft on June 26, 2026, marking a significant move as the team seeks to rebuild after missing the playoffs for two consecutive seasons. Dorofeyev, noted for his goal-scoring ability with 72 goals over two seasons, has agreed to a seven-year, $77 million extension. This trade is part of a larger strategy for the Rangers, who also drafted defenseman Alberts Smits. The Vegas Golden Knights, on the other hand, traded away their best homegrown player due to salary cap issues and made a rare first-round draft selection, opting for Juho Piiparinen with the 29th overall pick after trading down twice.

• 5:48 AMYahoo Sports — NHL draft winners, losers: Pavel Dorofeyev trade aids Rangers, hurts Golden Knights