# Matthew Robertson's case for Rangers third pair

> The Rangers need to settle their third-pair defense, and Matthew Robertson is the logical choice over prospect Alberts Smits.
- Title: Matthew Robertson's case for Rangers third pair | Shortify
- Summary: The Rangers need to settle their third-pair defense, and Matthew Robertson is the logical choice over prospect Alberts Smits. Robertson proved himself…
- Keywords: new york rangers, matthew robertson, alberts smits, third pair defense, 2026-27 season, nhl draft, training camp, braden schneider, mike sullivan, ahl development, sports, Matthew
- Source: New York Rangers On SI — https://si.com/nhl/rangers/onsi/news/why-matthew-robertson-should-be-third-pair-defenseman-for-ny-rangers
- Published: 2026-09-16T00:00:01+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: new york rangers, matthew robertson, alberts smits, third pair defense, 2026-27 season, nhl draft, training camp, braden schneider, mike sullivan, ahl development, sports
## Rangers face fresh start after rough year
New York finished last in the Eastern Conference last season but made moves over the summer to improve. Head coach Mike Sullivan now faces key roster decisions as training camp approaches.
## Third pair defense needs to be settled
With Pavel Dorofeyev added to the top six, the Rangers must figure out who plays left side of the third pair. This will be one of the key training camp battles.
## Smits should develop in the AHL first
The Rangers drafted Alberts Smits fifth overall in 2026 as an NHL-ready prospect. But starting him in the AHL makes more sense unless he dominates training camp and preseason.
## Robertson proved himself last season
The former second-round pick played 72 games with 18 points (6 goals, 12 assists) and a minus-1 rating. The Rangers were solid when he was on the ice.
## Robertson and Schneider make solid pairing
Robertson is capable of playing well on the third pair alongside Braden Schneider. While not a star, this duo should perform effectively for the Rangers.
## Key takeaway

Robertson proved himself capable in 72 games last season and should start on the third pair while the Rangers develop their young draft pick in the AHL.