# Rangers Training Camp Focus on Two Rookies

> Rangers eye two rookies for key 2026-27 NHL roles.
- Title: Rangers Training Camp Focus on Two Rookies · New York Post
- Summary: Rangers eye two rookies for key 2026-27 NHL roles. Rangers prioritize goalie Dylan Garand and defenseman Alberts Smits for 2026-27 NHL roster through…
- Keywords: rangers, dylan garand, alberts smits, nfl, training camp, 2026-27 season, goaltending, defense, news, entertainment, Training, Camp
- Source: New York Post — https://nypost.com/2026/09/16/sports/rangers-eyes-will-be-on-two-rookies-during-training-camp
- Published: 2026-09-17T03:56:47+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: rangers, dylan garand, alberts smits, nfl, training camp, 2026-27 season, goaltending, defense, news, entertainment
## Rangers training camp focus
Last season, Noah Laba proved a strong training camp rewards players. The same rule applies as multiple Rangers rookies prepare for the first on-ice session of the 2026-27 preseason Thursday.
## Two rookies in contention
Of the 16 would-be rookies on the training camp roster, only two stand out as having the most legitimate chances before stepping on the ice.
## Goalie competition
Goalie Dylan Garand and defenseman Alberts Smits are both in the mix for the few open spots in the Blueshirts lineup.
## Garand's backup role
Garand will go toe-to-toe with veteran goaltender Joonas Korpisalo for the backup job behind star netminder Igor Shesterkin.
## Smits' development focus
Sullivan noted that the 18-year-old’s history of playing in international men’s leagues has paved the way to his current position.
## Rangers' caution with Smits
Despite acknowledging Smits has a chance to make the Opening Night roster, Sullivan showed the organization’s caution about his development timeline.
## What happens next
The Rangers will watch Smits in training camp with veteran players to determine where he fits and what’s best for his development.
## Key takeaway

Rangers prioritize goalie Dylan Garand and defenseman Alberts Smits for 2026-27 NHL roster through competitive training camp.