Drew Fortescue recognizes the significance of the upcoming summer for his development with the New York Rangers. Before the club drafted defenseman Alberts Smits fifth overall last month, Fortescue was considered the top defensive prospect in the Rangers' pipeline.
Last season, the Rangers opted to activate Fortescue's entry-level contract to bring him to Manhattan after his junior season at Boston College concluded in late March. This move mirrored the team's approach with his Boston College teammate Gabe Perreault the previous year. Fortescue, who celebrated his 21st birthday shortly after the Rangers' season ended, demonstrated his capabilities during his initial nine NHL games. The experience provided him with clear areas for improvement that he intends to address during the offseason.