GREG WOHLFORD/ERIE TIMES-NEWS / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The New York Rangers may have gotten a steal during the second round of the 2025 NHL Draft.

With the 43rd overall pick, the Rangers selected explosive forward Malcolm Spence, who many projected would be a first-round pick.

Serving as the assistant captain for the Erie Otters of The Ontario Hockey League this past season, Spence lit up the stat sheet as he recorded 32 goals, 41 assists, and 73 points in 65 games.

It’s his speed and strong skating abilities that intrigued the Rangers about Spence, leading to them ultimately drafting him.

"His speed is a weapon," Rangers director of player development Jed Ortmeyer said via NHL.com. "His skating ability too. He's tenacious with the puck. He's been able to produce at the junior level. I think it'll be a good spot for him to develop."

This upcoming season, the 18-year-old forward is set to play at the University of Michigan, one of the most prestigious hockey programs in the NCAA.

“I know to play in the NHL, you have to be physically ready,” Spence said. “Maybe there are parts of my game skill-wise that may be ready, but physically I’m not. I know going to Michigan is going to give me more runway time. For me to jump in as an impact player, that’s what I want to do.”

Igor Shesterkin Took A Positive Step Last Season, But It Wasn't On The Ice Throughout the entirety of the 2024-25 season, there was a lot of noise surrounding Igor Shesterkin, but he remained quiet. 

It will likely take about one-two years before we see Spence playing in the NHL. Regardless of when it happens, Spence is ready to represent the Blueshirts with pride and is already thinking about that special opportunity.

“I'm really excited that they took a chance on me and believed in me when a lot of the other people didn't,” Spence said. “So I'm really excited to get to New York City and get to work.”

Rangers Prospect Malcolm Spence's Speed Is ‘A Weapon’