Gabriel Perreault, the New York Rangers' highly touted prospect, might not make the opening night roster for the 2025-26 season, and that's perfectly acceptable. The Rangers' top prospect, since being drafted in 2023, has garnered significant attention, perhaps even unfairly inflating expectations for his immediate impact in the NHL.

Perreault's resume speaks volumes. He boasts two gold medals from the IIHF World Junior Championship with Team USA, and an impressive 108 points across 73 NCAA games with Boston College. He also briefly joined the Rangers at the end of last season, playing five games. Furthermore, Perreault ranks among the all-time leading scorers in the United States National Team Development Program.

Despite the hype, Perreault's potential absence from the opening night lineup shouldn't be viewed as a setback. The transition from college to the NHL is a significant leap, and many players require time to adjust to the professional level. Former Rangers like Brady Skjei, Chris Kreider, and Ryan McDonagh all benefited from stints in the American Hockey League (AHL). These AHL experiences allowed them to hone their skills and adapt to the pro game, ultimately contributing to their NHL success.

The AHL provides a more challenging environment compared to the NCAA, featuring older and more experienced players, some of whom have NHL experience. This adjustment period could be crucial for Perreault's long-term development.

Another factor to consider is Perreault's need for consistent playing time. At his age, regular minutes are essential for growth. Securing a spot on the Rangers' opening night roster shouldn't be the sole focus. The organization should prioritize what's best for his development, even if it means starting the season with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL.

Perreault himself understands the importance of development and is committed to working hard. He spent the offseason training with NHL veterans like Patrick Kane, Alex DeBrincat, and Christian Dvorak, focusing on improving his skills and preparing for the rigors of professional hockey. Perreault recognizes the need to become a more complete, two-way player to earn a spot in the Rangers' lineup.

The Rangers' prospect pool is strong, with Perreault considered their top prospect. Other notable prospects include Malcolm Spence, a high-character player with leadership qualities, and Dylan Garand, a promising goalie currently developing in the AHL. The organization also added Carey Terrance, a solid center prospect, and Scott Morrow, a defenseman prospect, through trades.

Ultimately, whether Perreault starts the season in New York or Hartford, his future with the Rangers looks bright. The organization is focused on his long-term development, and giving him the time and space to grow will only benefit both the player and the team. His skills and hockey IQ are undeniable, and with the right approach, he has the potential to become a key player for the Rangers in the years to come.