Liam Greentree is commencing his professional hockey career with the New York Rangers, attending the team's prospect development camp at their suburban Westchester facility. The forward, acquired in a February trade that sent Artemi Panarin to Los Angeles, donned the Rangers crest for the first time and expressed enthusiasm about joining the historic Original Six franchise.
Greentree, who turns 20 this year, is already facing high expectations following a successful junior career. He recorded 74 points (38 goals, 36 assists) in 52 games for the OHL's Windsor Spitfires last season, marking his third consecutive season with at least 74 points. New York Rangers President and General Manager Chris Drury previously valued Greentree "higher than a '26 or '27 first-round pick." Despite the anticipation, Greentree stated he is not feeling overwhelmed.
"It's the business of it, and I’ve yet to play an NHL game," Greentree said when asked about pressure. "I’m going through the process of it and trying to make my career a good one. There’s a whole process to these things, so I’m trusting everyone around me. I want to play my game and be a Ranger one day."
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 207 pounds, Greentree describes his playing style as a "big power forward" capable of contributing in multiple facets of the game. He is expected to begin his professional career with the AHL's Hartford Wolf Pack, though playing time with the Rangers at some point this season is considered a possibility.
To prepare for the transition to professional hockey, Greentree has been focusing on improving his skating, acknowledging the significant difference in speed at the NHL level compared to junior hockey. Fellow prospect Nathan Aspinall, who has known Greentree since childhood and skated with him during summers, highlighted Greentree's playmaking and goal-scoring abilities. "I think just when he gets the puck on his stick, he’s dangerous everywhere," Aspinall commented.
Greentree is not the only notable prospect at the Rangers camp. First-round pick Alberts Smits also participated after being selected fifth overall. Smits, who was more reserved when discussing his immediate future and conversations with the team, stated his current focus is on familiarizing himself with the organization.
Greentree aims to utilize the development camp to enhance his skills and learn what is required to reach the next level. "It’s about taking everything in here and taking it to the offseason and really having a good offseason," he said.