Fortescue Faces Defensive Squeeze, Remains Focused on Rangers Future
Despite roster additions, prospect Drew Fortescue is determined to prove his NHL readiness.
Drew Fortescue, a promising left-handed defenseman, faces a challenging path to securing regular ice time with the New York Rangers due to recent roster moves. The organization's acquisition of veteran defenseman Marcus Pettersson via trade and the drafting of rookie Alberts Smits in the first round have increased competition on the blue line.
Fortescue, 21, received a nine-game audition at the end of the previous season, which counted as the first year of his entry-level contract. Despite the crowded defensive corps, he remains optimistic about his future with the team.
"That's nothing that's in my control," Fortescue stated regarding the team's additions. "All I can do is just work the hardest that I can and whoever's here or whatnot, I think that I know that I'm good enough — and someday, if it's not now or in the future, that I'll be able to play here."
Fortescue is participating in his first NHL training camp, aiming to demonstrate his capability to make the roster. During his nine-game stint at the conclusion of the 2025-26 season, he recorded two assists, capitalizing on the Rangers' rebuild to audition for future roles.
"You want to play at the highest level," Fortescue said. "It's your dream as a kid, and kinda getting that little glimpse last year, that month I was there, it was pretty special."
While Fortescue believes he made improvements across all areas of his game during the offseason, the Rangers' strategic additions mean he is likely to begin the upcoming season with AHL Hartford. Although injuries could potentially accelerate his return to the NHL, Fortescue acknowledges that earning a consistent spot on the Rangers' blue line may require patience.
In other training camp news, forward Tye Kartye scored two goals during an intrasquad scrimmage on Saturday, bringing his total to three in the first three scrimmages. Head coach Mike Sullivan praised Kartye's energy, enthusiasm, and dedication to learning, calling him "an easy guy to root for."
During practice sessions, Matt Rempe received initial repetitions on the fourth line. Defenseman Matthew Robertson left the ice early after a collision but returned with apparent dental damage. Cole Beaudoin, initially listed as day-to-day, participated fully in the scrimmage.