The New York Rangers made a roster move ahead of their upcoming matchup with the Philadelphia Flyers, recalling defenseman Connor Mackey from the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack. The decision comes as Carson Soucy is set to miss the game due to personal reasons, marking his fifth absence of the season.
For Mackey, this is his fourth call-up of the year, but game action at the NHL level has remained elusive. The 29-year-old blueliner, now in the final year of a two-year, $1.55 million contract, has yet to appear in a game for the Rangers this season. In fact, since the start of the 2023-24 campaign, he's only suited up three times for New York, logging an average of 16:14 in ice time without registering a point.
With six other healthy defensemen currently on the roster, Mackey’s recall appears to be more about depth than deployment. Unless something changes before puck drop, he’s likely to serve as an insurance policy rather than a lineup regular.
Still, Mackey’s been a steady presence in Hartford. Over 142 games with the Wolf Pack, he’s tallied 10 goals and 42 points, while racking up 238 penalty minutes. He brings a hard-nosed, two-way style that’s earned respect in the AHL, and he’s clearly someone the organization values as a reliable call-up option when needed.
As for Soucy, the 31-year-old has been a consistent piece on the Rangers’ blue line this season. He’s played in 44 games, contributing three goals and eight points while averaging just over 17 minutes per night. Defensively, he’s been solid, helping the team to a 93.5% on-ice save percentage at even strength-a number that speaks to his reliability in his own zone.
What makes Soucy’s absence more intriguing is the broader context. Earlier today, Rangers GM Chris Drury addressed fans with a letter signaling a shift in the team’s long-term strategy.
The message? The organization is looking ahead, with an eye toward retooling for future success rather than pushing all-in for the 2025-26 season.
That pivot could put Soucy on the trade radar. With his contract set to expire and his steady play making him a potentially valuable rental, he fits the mold of a deadline asset. If the Rangers find a team looking to bolster its blue line for a playoff run, Soucy could be on the move in the coming weeks.
For now, Mackey gets the call, and the Rangers continue to juggle short-term needs with long-term plans.