Rangers coach believes prospect Smits can earn roster spot
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 18, 2026, 2:03 PM
Last updated Sep 18, 2026
At the New York Rangers training camp, coach Mike Sullivan indicated that 18-year-old Albert Smits has the potential to secure a spot on the opening-night roster. Smits, the No. 5 overall pick in this year's NHL Draft, has impressed management, contributing with assists in recent rookie games despite some struggles. With only a few preseason games remaining, he is aiming to outperform other defensemen on the depth chart. Sullivan emphasized the importance of careful evaluation during the shorter training camp, and Smits expressed a focus on continual improvement in his performance.
- •Albert Smits is competing for a spot on the Rangers' opening-night roster.
- •Coach Mike Sullivan praised Smits for his size and skill on the ice.
- •Smits recorded assists in rookie games but faced challenges in puck management.
- •He must standout to avoid starting in the AHL this season.
- •The Rangers' preseason schedule is shorter, intensifying competition for roster spots.
- 2:03 PMYahoo Sports — Rangers Daily: Smits gets fair chance; Nikishin not going to KHL
- 12:29 AMYahoo Sports — Rangers feel Alberts Smits is physically ready for NHL, but will look at big picture for next step
- 8:26 PMYahoo Sports — Rangers coach says 18-year-old Smits ‘has chance to make team’
"With Rangers training camp kicking off this week, head coach Mike Sullivan confirmed that first-round pick Alberts Smits does indeed have a chance at making the team.
"Consider the window of opportunity wide open at New York Rangers training camp for their top prospect Albert Smits, the […]
"Alberts Smits not only took part in his first New York Rangers practice on Thursday, but the 18-year-old was in […]
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 18, 2026, 2:03 PMRangers Daily: Smits gets fair chance; Nikishin not going to KHL
Alberts Smits not only took part in his first New York Rangers practice on Thursday, but the 18-year-old was in […]
- Yahoo SportsSep 17, 2026, 12:29 AMRangers feel Alberts Smits is physically ready for NHL, but will look at big picture for next step
With Rangers training camp kicking off this week, head coach Mike Sullivan confirmed that first-round pick Alberts Smits does indeed have a chance at making the team.
- Yahoo SportsSep 16, 2026, 8:26 PMRangers coach says 18-year-old Smits ‘has chance to make team’
Consider the window of opportunity wide open at New York Rangers training camp for their top prospect Albert Smits, the […]
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