One of the biggest struggles for the New York Rangers over the last few years has been developing young talent.

They had plenty of opportunities with first-round picks from 2017 through 2021, with nine selections. Yet, only two, Alexis Lafrieniere and Braden Schneider, remain with the club. It is a major reason why Jed Ortmeyer was relieved of his duties as the director of player development and replaced by Tanner Glass .

However, in more recent years, the Rangers have started to find more success with their younger players. One such development is Drew Fortescue, a 21-year-old left defenseman who emerged down the stretch of the 2025-26 campaign.

A native of Pearl River, New York, it was a special season for the former Boston College Eagles star, who made his debut and created a life-long memory on March 27.

Apr 4, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Drew Fortescue (45) skates against the Detroit Red Wings during the third period at Madison Square Garden.…