Alberts Smits, 18, Secures Place on Rangers' Season-Opening Roster
Alberts Smits has secured a place on New York's 23-man roster for the start of the 2026-27 season. The 18-year-old defenseman was taken fifth overall in June and is one of five first-round picks from that draft to begin the year in the NHL. Braden Schneider is expected to skate alongside him on the Rangers' third pairing.
Alberts Smits, an 18-year-old Latvian defenseman, has earned a spot on New York’s season-opening 23-man roster after being selected fifth overall in June. He signed his entry-level deal in July and previously played professionally in Finland’s Liiga at 16 before splitting last season between Jukurit and EHC Munich. He is one of five players from his draft class to start the year in the NHL, alongside Gavin McKenna, Ivar Stenberg, Viggo Bjorck and Nikita Klepov. Braden Schneider is expected to partner him on the third pairing.
He could become the first Rangers defenseman to debut on opening night at 18, with Boston hosting Tuesday.
Smits’s roster spot may energize Latvian hockey fans and young players, showing a possible path from European pro leagues to the NHL at 18. Rangers supporters could gain a new young defenseman to follow, while his presence might raise expectations for future draft picks and increase attention on rookie development. His early debut could also affect team lineup decisions and media coverage, though long-term impact remains uncertain.