It’s still not good enough.
But soon.
Gabe Perreault, the Rangers’ first-round pick (23rd overall) in 2023, is back at Boston College for his sophomore season but has yet to turn pro with AHL Hartford.
The 19-year-old forward was one of the Rangers’ top talents at their three-day prospect development camp this week and shouldn’t be far from competing for a roster spot.
“He’s amazing [freshman] “He’s been outstanding this season,” Rangers director of player development Jed Ortmeyer said Tuesday. “He’s been impressive and fun to watch. We’ve seen a lot of him and he’s a player we’re excited about. We’re excited to continue to develop him and work with him.”
Perreault had a standout freshman season at Boston College, appearing in 36 games and recording 60 points (19 goals, 41 assists), tied for fourth best in the nation.
He also helped lead the Eagles to the national championship finals before losing to Denver.
“It’s been a big year for me and for the team, obviously,” Perreault said. “It’s just been a fun year overall, a good season for the team and for myself. I think we’ve grown, I’ve gotten bigger, so I think it’s been really good overall.”
That size and athleticism is where Perreault has the most room to grow.
Listed at 5-foot-11 and weighing 165 pounds, he will eventually have to prove he can hold his own with an increasingly intimidating Rangers team.
“The first few games [freshman year]The guy is big and strong and probably doesn’t have much time. [on the puck]”That was probably the biggest difference,” Perot said.
“I think I’ve always been good at getting inside and finding different ways to score and make plays, but as I get stronger and bigger, I think it’ll become easier to do those things.”
He will soon return to Boston and likely go his separate ways with the Rangers for a while.
His next season back in college could play a big role in how quickly he turns pro.
And he starts helping the Rangers.
“I’m focused on having another big year in school,” Perreault said. “I want to stay focused on that, have a good season and hopefully win a national championship. When the time comes, I’ll sit down with my family, my agent and obviously the Rangers and see what they think about my situation and most importantly, what I think about my situation and then make a decision from there.”
