Rangers urged to develop Alberts Smits in AHL before NHL debut

The New York Rangers face a decision regarding top draft pick Alberts Smits as the 2026-27 season approaches. Despite the 18-year-old's professional experience in Finland and his performance during the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, critics suggest starting him with the AHL's Hartford Wolf Pack for his long-term development. The organization has a history of promoting high-end picks like Kaapo Kakko and Alexis Lafreniere directly to the NHL, a strategy that failed to produce immediate results. Kakko, in particular, struggled to adjust to the North American game after moving from Finland. By allowing Smits to acclimate in Hartford, the team could potentially avoid similar developmental hurdles. The Rangers season opener is scheduled for September 29 against the Boston Bruins at TD Garden.

• 1:08 PMYahoo Sports — Why Rangers should commit to Alberts Smits starting season in Hartford