The New York Rangers might not be the first team you think of when it comes to drafting and developing young talent, but their recent strategy of selecting towering forwards in the late rounds of the NHL Draft is starting to pay off. Enter rookie forward Jaroslav Chmelar, a fifth-round pick in 2021, who’s making waves on Broadway.
Standing at an impressive 6-foot-4 and weighing 226 pounds, Chmelar isn’t just about size. His skating prowess has already led to two highlight-reel goals this month, marking his first in the NHL. His debut goal came against the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he snagged a loose puck and showcased his scoring touch with a slick move past goaltender Joseph Woll.
Chmelar continued to impress with a similar play against the Minnesota Wild, using his size to fend off a defenseman and netting a beautiful backhand goal. These performances have caught the eye of coach Mike Sullivan, who’s noted Chmelar’s growth and increased pace on the ice.
Sullivan praised Chmelar for his anticipation, recognition skills, and physical speed. “He’s a big man and hard to play against,” Sullivan remarked. “When he finishes checks, he can create anxiety for opponents.”
Chmelar’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. After an initial call-up from AHL Hartford in November, he played six games before returning to Hartford. But since being recalled in March, he’s become a regular fixture in the lineup, thanks to his noticeable improvement.
Though he didn’t light up the scoreboard at Providence College, Chmelar’s unique skill set for his size-strong skating, speed, and excellent hands-makes him a promising prospect. The Rangers are banking on their strategy of finding gems late in the draft, hoping players like Chmelar can fill crucial roles.
The Rangers’ fourth line also features Adam Edstrom, another giant at 6-7, who’s showcasing his abilities at center. Meanwhile, Dylan Roobroeck, a 2023 sixth-round pick, is making his case for a shot with the big club, bringing his own blend of size and skill to the table.
While the Rangers’ current season might not be one for the history books, Chmelar’s development is a bright spot. Despite the team’s struggles, his performances are earning him recognition and hint at a promising future.
Chmelar still has areas to refine, particularly in his play away from the puck. However, Sullivan’s encouraging words suggest that Chmelar could play a significant role in the Rangers’ future as they aim to reshape their identity under GM Chris Drury’s “retool” strategy.