The New York Rangers signed prospect Matthew Robertson to a one-year deal as part of their efforts to bolster their defensive lineup, the organization said in a press release.
Rangers sign Matthew Robertson to a one-year contract
This morning, the Rangers announced in a statement that Robertson had signed a one-year contract. The bulk of the Blueshirts’ 2019 second-round draft selection’s professional career has been spent in the American Hockey League as a member of the Hartford Wolf Pack, the Rangers’ affiliate.
During the previous season, the 23-year-old played in 68 games with the Wolf Pack, tallying four goals and 17 assists for a total of 21 points while also earning a -11 rating. Robertson, a left-handed defenseman who stands 6 feet 4 inches and weighs 193 pounds, is regarded as a speedy and astute player. The Rangers believe he could be prepared to take the next step in 2024 after watching him grow in Hartford for the last three seasons.
Will Robertson become a focal point of the Rangers’ defense?
This season marks Robertson’s first NHL debut to date. In 2022–23, he sustained a shoulder injury that ended his season. Although he made progress on the offensive end last season, his defense was insufficient to warrant a spot on the Blueshirts roster.
It’s unknown right now whether or when Robertson will be brought up to New York. The majority of the Blueshirts’ defensive line is committed for the foreseeable future; in the event of an injury or trade, Zac Jones will take precedence over Robertson.
Robertson would need to sign a new contract once his current one-year agreement expires if he were to ever establish himself as a major contributor to the Rangers’ defense. For the time being, Robertson needs to either settle into his role as a player in Hartford or start looking for future opportunities with bigger teams.