The Rangers quickly signed defenseman Drew Fortescue to an entry-level deal following the end of Boston College’s season, though their choice to immediately use up a year of his contract has sparked some familiar concerns.
After returning to Boston College for his junior year, Fortescue was widely expected to turn pro once the season wrapped up. That expectation became reality after the Eagles’ loss to UConn in the Hockey East semifinal, prompting New York to bring him into the organization right away.
While the signing itself wasn’t surprising, the decision to bypass a professional tryout and instead start his contract immediately raised eyebrows. The Rangers took a similar approach last year with Gabe Perreault a move that, in hindsight, didn’t pay off. With Mike Sullivan now leading the team, there’s hope Fortescue will see meaningful ice time, especially given recent injuries that could open a spot in the lineup.
During his three seasons at Boston College, Fortescue recorded 8 goals and 33 points, though offense isn’t his calling card. He’s known more as a reliable shutdown defenseman, excelling at disrupting plays, killing penalties, and making smart breakout passes from the defensive zone skills the Rangers could benefit from.
As the season winds down, the team has struggled at times, but the emergence of young talent like Noah Laba and Gabe Perreault has been a bright spot. Fortescue now joins that wave of youth, and the Rangers will be hoping he becomes another key piece for the future.
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