Sports News Report
Sport: HockeyCountry: GlobalCategory: Breaking News

Rangers draft Albert Smits as defenseman with two-way potential

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 27, 2026, 12:41 AM

Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Rangers draft Albert Smits as defenseman with two-way potential
Summary

The New York Rangers selected Albert Smits with the No. 5 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Smits, a 6-foot-3 defenseman from Latvia, played in Finland's Liiga and the DEL playoffs in Germany last season. He also represented Latvia at the Winter Olympics and the IIHF World Championship. Smits is recognized for his strong defensive positioning and effective puck movement, although he will need to enhance his footwork and offensive assertiveness. He could be a candidate for the Rangers' lineup in the upcoming 2026-27 season.

Source Links
Yahoo Sports
Latest Updates
  • •Rangers pick Albert Smits fifth overall in 2026 NHL Draft
  • •Smits played professionally in Finland and Germany
  • •Represents Latvia in international competitions
  • •Known for strong defensive skills and puck movement
  • •Potential to join Rangers' lineup in 2026-27 season
Latest Updates
  • 12:41 AMYahoo Sports — Rangers see Albert Smits as rising two‑way force on blue line
What they're saying
"

The New York Rangers used the No. 5 pick in the 2026 NHL Draft on Albert Smits, a defenseman from […]

Related Teams & Leagues
New York RangersHockey

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days