Rangers Look to Shore Up Left‑Side Defense as Free Agency Begins

The drop‑off in defensive depth following Vladislav Gavrikov on the Rangers’ left side is significant, making it a top priority as free agency opens at noon on Wednesday.

After concluding the season with 21‑year‑old Drew Fortescue and Matthew Robertson—who had spent most of his career in the AHL—as their second‑ and third‑pair left‑handed defensemen, the Rangers view reinforcing their backend as essential to rekindling contention.

The Rangers have already added Alberts Smits, a left‑handed defenseman selected fifth overall in the weekend draft, to their defensive pool.

Depending on how training camp progresses, Smits could see an early opportunity; nonetheless, the organization expects to strengthen the spot through either free‑agent signings or a trade.

Source link