The Rangers traded their 2025 first-round pick to acquire J.T. Miller, protected as top-13, meaning they could retain it if it fell there. They missed the playoffs, landing the pick at No. 12. GM Chris Drury must decide by Wednesday whether to keep it or surrender it for 2026. Retaining the pick might benefit if they make the playoffs next year, but signing a restricted free agent may necessitate sacrificing this year’s choice. The upcoming decisions will significantly impact the Rangers' roster and draft strategy.
If Drury wants to go after a restricted free agent this summer - and the market for unrestricted free agents has been described as underwhelming - he might need to have possession of his first-round pick.
If the Rangers miss the playoffs again this season and find themselves in the lottery for the second straight year, their 2026 pick could turn out to be higher than No. 12 overall.
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