The New York Rangers entered the 2025 NHL Draft with a clear mission: bolster their prospect pool with size and skill. With eight picks, starting in the second round, the Rangers focused on adding organizational depth, particularly on defense. While some analysts questioned the emphasis on size in the later rounds, the consensus is that the Rangers had a strong draft, especially considering they didn't have a first-round pick.

Malcolm Spence (LW, Erie Otters - OHL): Round 2, #43 Overall

The Rangers' first pick of the draft was left winger Malcolm Spence. Many analysts considered Spence a potential first-round talent, making him a steal at pick #43. Spence is known for his high motor, offensive zone awareness, and ability to connect with teammates. He possesses a strong one-timer and the capability to elude defenders on the wall. Although some have noted a lack of consistency in his game, his potential is undeniable. One scout noted that when Spence is on his game, he is a top-level player.

Grade: A+ Landing a prospect of Spence's caliber outside the first round is a major win for the Rangers.

Sean Barnhill (D, Dubuque Fighting Saints - USHL): Round 3, #70 Overall

With their first of two third-round picks, the Rangers selected defenseman Sean Barnhill. Barnhill is a towering, mobile defenseman with a long reach. He is a Northeastern University commit from Arizona. He is known for his skating ability and puck-moving skills, as well as his two-way capabilities. His skating allows him to effectively defend rushes.

Grade: B+ Barnhill is a solid two-way defenseman with size and mobility, though he needs time to develop.

Artyom Gonchar (D, Stalnye Lisy Magnitogorsk - MHL): Round 3, #89 Overall

The Rangers continued to address their defensive depth with the selection of Artyom Gonchar, nephew of former NHL star Sergei Gonchar. Gonchar is a skilled puck-moving defenseman capable of making accurate passes to his teammates.

Grade: B Gonchar possesses offensive upside and good puck skills but needs to add weight to his frame.

Mikkel Eriksen (C, Färjestad BK J20 - J20 Nationell): Round 4, #111 Overall

In the fourth round, the Rangers selected center Mikkel Eriksen. Eriksen is a deceptive player with great vision, known for his playmaking abilities. He is the nephew of former NHL forward Espen Knutsen.

Grade: B- Eriksen is a skilled center with offensive potential, though he needs to continue to develop his overall game.

Zeb Lindgren (D, Skellefteå AIK J20 - J20 Nationell): Round 5, #139 Overall

The Rangers continued to stockpile defensemen by selecting Zeb Lindgren in the fifth round. Lindgren is a mobile, puck-moving defenseman with good skating ability.

Grade: C+ Lindgren's skating is his best asset, and he projects as a potential puck-moving defenseman.

Samuel Jung (RW, Kärpät U20 - U20 SM-sarja): Round 6, #166 Overall

In the sixth round, the Rangers selected Czech right winger Samuel Jung.

Grade: C Jung is a late-round pick with some offensive upside.

Evan Passmore (D, Barrie Colts - OHL): Round 6, #171 Overall

The Rangers drafted Evan Passmore with their second sixth-round pick. He is a defensive defenseman with size. Passmore is a physical player and a good penalty killer.

Grade: C- Passmore is a big, physical defenseman who projects as a potential depth player.

Felix Farhammar (D, Örebro J20 - J20 Nationell): Round 7, #203 Overall

With their final pick, the Rangers selected Swedish defenseman Felix Farhammar. He is a left-shot defenseman with some offensive potential.

Grade: D+ Farhammar is a long-term project with decent size and some skill.

Overall Draft Grade: B+

The Rangers addressed their need for organizational depth by selecting a mix of skilled forwards and sizable defensemen. Malcolm Spence has the potential to be a top-six forward. Several of their defensive picks have size and skating ability, fitting the mold of the modern NHL defenseman. While it will take several years to see how these players develop, the Rangers appear to have had a successful draft.