Feb 23, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Rangers defenseman Matthew Robertson (44) warms up against the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

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Matthew Robertson Set to Make NHL Debut with Rangers

After years in the AHL, Robertson gets his long-awaited shot as the Rangers deal with injuries on defense.

The New York Rangers are giving one of their long-waiting prospects a well-deserved shot at the NHL. On the heels of Braden Schneider being ruled out for the last two games of the regular season due to an upper-body injury, the Rangers have recalled defenseman Matthew Robertson from their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack. For Robertson, this marks a major milestone in his journey, he’s expected to make his NHL debut.

At 24 years old, Robertson has taken a longer path than some to reach this point. Drafted by the Rangers in the second round of the 2019 NHL Draft, he’s spent the past four seasons honing his craft in the AHL. While that might seem like a long wait, it’s also a testament to his persistence and steady development. This season, he’s had one of his better years in Hartford, recording 25 points in 60 games along with 55 penalty minutes. Over his 250-game AHL career, he’s posted 80 points and racked up 176 penalty minutes, numbers that reflect both his offensive upside and his physical presence on the ice.

Rangers Recall Matthew Robertsonhttps://t.co/fbjkfmzn1J
— Pro Hockey Rumors (@prohockeyrumors) April 13, 2025

Before his time in the AHL, Robertson played five seasons in the WHL with the Edmonton Oil Kings. It was there he made a name for himself as a reliable two-way defenseman. In 208 games, he tallied 127 points, and his final season in junior hockey saw him producing at nearly a point-per-game pace, impressive for any defenseman.

Despite being highly rated when he was drafted, Robertson hasn’t yet had the chance to suit up for the Rangers—until now. This opportunity comes at an interesting time for both him and the team. He’ll be a restricted free agent at the end of the season, and his performance during these final games could play a role in what kind of contract the Rangers offer him.

The team’s blue line could see some changes next season, which could open the door for Robertson to earn a more permanent spot. K’Andre Miller is also a restricted free agent and will be due a raise, while Zachary Jones is up for a new deal as well. Calvin de Haan, brought in midseason via trade, is likely on his way out after expressing frustration with his role on the team.

With all that uncertainty, Robertson’s debut feels more than just symbolic, it’s a genuine chance to prove he belongs. For a player who’s waited patiently and put in the work in the minors, this could be the start of something big in his NHL career.

Image Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Matthew Robertson

New York Rangers

NHL

Anamika Shrivastava

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