The New York Rangers announced the first four cuts at camp today, sending for forwards back to Canadian Juniors and their respective training camps. Included in the four were 2022 NHL draft picks Bryce McConnell-Barker and Maxim Barbashev, along with 2021 3rd round pick Jayden Grubbe and 18 year old invitee Sam Alfano.
Both McConnell-Barker and Barbashev are relatively raw forwards who are perhaps better served working with their respective junior teams to prepare for the upcoming season. Neither player is expected to compete for an NHL spot, but having a good season or two over the next two years could earn them a contract with the Rangers.
In the case of the 19 year old Grubbe, he will no doubt be a little disappointed. The physical center had a relatively modest season last year for Red Deer in the WHL, and will likely need a strong rebound this year if he hopes to win a contract.
Alfano is still draft eligible, and as such is not yet in the Rangers plans.
CBJ
NJD