While attention is currently on the New York Rangers, a standout player is poised to make a significant impact soon.
Forward Gabe Perreault was selected by the Rangers as the 23rd overall pick in the first round of the 2023 NHL Draft. Coming from the U.S. National Team Development Program, he had garnered considerable attention before joining a talented Boston College team last season.
Perreault ranked fourth in scoring on his team, accumulating 19 goals and 41 assists for a total of 60 points, trailing only current NHL players Will Smith (San Jose Sharks), Cutter Gauthier (Anaheim Ducks), and Washington Capitals prospect Ryan Leonard. This season, he is off to a strong start, leading the Eagles with 13 points in just eight games.
On the latest episode of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Steven Ellis discussed what sets Perreault apart with hosts Tyler Yaremchuk and Frank Seravalli.
Steven Ellis remarked: “The Rangers have landed a unique prospect. You can see the caliber of players he’s teamed up with, such as James Hagens, a top prospect for 2025. Last year, he played alongside centerman Will Smith and has been with Ryan Leonard for a considerable time. Perreault recorded 132 points, a single-season record with the USNDTP, which is no small feat. While it appeared that Will Smith and Ryan Leonard were doing the heavy lifting, Perreault shined at the World Juniors with 10 points and produced 60 points as a freshman in college; he has clearly evolved into a play-driving force.
A significant concern for me and others before his draft was his skating ability, but that seems to have improved dramatically. He now displays greater explosiveness and is much more effective in backchecking. Overall, he’s developed into a more complete player and could step into a top-six role for the Rangers as soon as the college season concludes.”
