Dylangerland is on the verge of breaking through, and the New York Rangers can no longer overlook him. Selected as the fourth overall pick in 2020, he has shown consistent improvement each year and has established himself as the top goalie for the Hartford Wolfpack in the American Hockey League (AHL).
This past season has been Garland’s best yet at the professional level. He posted a 20-10-9 record, a .913 save percentage, and a 2.73 goals-against average, earning a spot to represent the Atlantic Division in the AHL All-Star Game during the 2024-25 season.
While the Rangers currently have Igor Shesterkin, who is expected to be the team’s starting goalie for years to come, Garland has proven he could be a genuine NHL-caliber goaltender and has a role waiting for him with the team. To secure his position, the Rangers quickly signed him to a one-year contract extension, positioning him as the backup goalie barring any unforeseen circumstances.
That said, Quick, the current backup, is 39 years old and not a long-term answer. If Garland, at just 23 years old, maintains his development pace, he should soon earn a more permanent spot on the Rangers roster.
In another move, the Rangers have signed Vitali Kravtsov, another 2018 first-round pick, to a one-year two-way contract, as he aims to revive his NHL career with the Vancouver Canucks.
Garland himself has expressed readiness to step into a full-time NHL role. “I haven’t gotten an opportunity in the NHL yet, but obviously I’m ready whenever my chance comes,” he said.
Even if he spends more time in the AHL this season, Garland’s future looks very promising.
Fan Take: This is exciting news for hockey fans because having a strong and ready backup goalie like Garland means the Rangers are well-prepared for the future, ensuring the team’s stability in goal. His development signals a new era of talent that can keep the sport competitive and thrilling for years to come.
