Tye Kartye is making a strong first impression with the Rangers in various ways.

Rangers Discover Potential in Ty Cartier

The Rangers seem to have found a promising asset in Ty Cartier. In just his initial 12 games with the team, he has already contributed three goals and five assists, totaling eight points since being picked off the waiver wire from the Kraken in late February.

He scored a critical game-tying goal just 41 seconds into the second period during Sunday’s 3-2 shootout defeat to the Jets, marking the 22nd goal of his career.

Interestingly, he’s already matched his output from the first 40 games of the season with the Kraken.

JT Miller, the team captain, highlighted Cartier’s speed as one of his standout attributes. “I enjoy playing with guys like him. He’s relentless, a great forechecker. Even when he doesn’t have the puck, he puts pressure on the defense, which is essential,” he mentioned. “We want to keep the play below the hash marks and gradually wear down the opponent. Ty was crucial for us today.”

Although Cartier has mostly played in the middle six since arriving in New York, he’s been utilizing the wing alongside Miller and Conor Sheary for the last few games. Head coach Mike Sullivan has also started integrating him into the penalty kill, where he averages about 1:20 of shorthanded ice time per game. Notably, three of the four power-play opportunities on Sunday turned into penalties.

“I think Ty has been a great addition,” Sullivan commented on the undrafted forward who has a total of 48 points in 191 NHL games. “He’s a fantastic kid who brings a lot of energy to the rink. He’s enthusiastic and loves to practice. What stands out is how he hunts the puck and pressures the defense, which creates chances for himself and his teammates. He’s also solid defensively and isn’t afraid to block shots.”

The day after signing a three-year entry-level contract, Drew Fortescue observed the Rangers from the press box during their match against the Jets. With another game against the Senators scheduled for Monday night, it’s anticipated that Fortescue will practice with the team at least once before possibly making his NHL debut. After back-to-back games, he will likely have his first practice on Tuesday, following a game against the Maple Leafs in Toronto on Wednesday.

Fortescue’s debut might come as soon as Friday against the Blackhawks.

Sullivan expressed optimism for Fortescue’s future, saying, “I can see him playing here eventually, and we’re excited to work with him.” They were particularly pleased with how Gabe Perreault fit into the organization last season, leading them to sign Fortescue immediately so he could begin training in New York.

By signing him now, the Rangers potentially facilitate Fortescue becoming a restricted free agent by the summer of 2028, instead of limiting him to a two-year contract beyond next season.