With 11 selections in the 2026 NHL Draft, the New York Rangers have a golden opportunity to bolster their depth in net. The later rounds could be where they find real gems, especially among this year’s crop of USHL goalies and a few European late bloomers. These prospects fit the mold of a 4th- to 7th-round pick: big frames, raw athleticism, and plenty of room to grow.
For a team looking to strengthen its pipeline behind Igor Shesterkin, these late-round gambles make both strategic and financial sense.
Current Goalie Situation
The Rangers have some decisions to make regarding their current goalie prospects. Dylan Garand, once an AHL All-Star, had a rocky season with the Hartford Wolf Pack in 2025-26. Entering his fourth pro season without an NHL game under his belt, the 23-year-old with arbitration rights is no sure bet to return next season.
Hugo Ollas, another prospect, has struggled to climb the ranks from the ECHL to a regular spot in Hartford. At 6-foot-8, he’s got the size but remains low on the depth chart. With arbitration rights and other goalies like Callum Tung and Spencer Martin under contract, Ollas might be on his way out.
Talyn Boyko, currently on loan to Kalpa in Finland, seems unlikely to stay with the Rangers.
With Jonathan Quick likely wrapping up his NHL career at 40, the Rangers might promote Garand or Martin as Shesterkin’s backup. Even if they opt for a veteran backup in free agency, they need to replenish their goalie depth.
2026 NHL Draft Goalie Prospects
Historically, the Rangers have thrived by taking chances on goalies needing time to develop, and the 2026 class aligns perfectly with this strategy. Many promising mid-round prospects are already committed to NCAA programs or playing in leagues known for grooming technically sound goaltenders. This allows New York to nurture talent without rushing prospects into the AHL.
USHL Prospects
Brady Knowling - USNTDP / Committed to Boston University
Brady Knowling is an intriguing option from the USHL. Standing at 6-foot-5, he has the size the Rangers favor, coupled with standout athleticism.
His commitment to Boston University next season provides a clear development path, and the NTDP-to-NCAA route has produced several NHL starters. Though his stats can fluctuate, Knowling’s potential is undeniable.
He’s the kind of high-ceiling project that might slip into the later rounds as teams opt for more polished goalies early on.
Tobias Trejbal - Youngstown Phantoms / Committed to UMass
Tobias Trejbal has been one of the steadiest USHL goalies, using his 6-foot-4 frame to remain composed under pressure. His calm demeanor and rebound control make him ideal for a team valuing structure in the crease.
With a commitment to UMass, Trejbal has a multi-year NCAA runway to refine his skills. His adaptability to North American play and consistent performance make him a solid candidate for the 5th or 6th round.
European and CHL Prospects
Harrison Boettiger - Kelowna Rockets (WHL)
Though not from Europe or the USHL, Harrison Boettiger fits the late-round mold. At 6-foot-3 and 194 pounds, he plays a technically sound game with excellent puck tracking and poise. His advanced reads and composed style make him a different kind of project-less raw, more refined, and potentially quicker to turn pro if his development stays on track.
Michal Oršulák - Czechia / Prince Albert (WHL)
Michal Oršulák is a classic late-round European pick. After uneven performances in Czech junior play, he found his footing in North America and impressed internationally, particularly at the World Juniors. With a 6-foot-4 frame and improving technique, Oršulák’s upward trajectory makes him a smart gamble in the 6th or 7th round.
Why These Goalies Fit the Rangers’ Strategy
All four goalies share traits that align with New York’s long-term needs: size, athletic potential, and multi-year development paths. The Rangers aren’t looking for an immediate NHL backup-they want a project who can grow behind Shesterkin and eventually vie for a role. The 2026 class offers several realistic options without requiring premium draft picks.