By Warren Kozireski —
For the second consecutive year, the New York Rangers dipped into the U.S. National Team Development Program for a defenseman at the draft when they selected E.J. Emery late in the first round at the 2024 NHL Entry Draft in Las Vegas. They selected Drew Fortescue in the third round in 2023.
The 6’4”, 183 lb. blueliner, headed to the University of North Dakota this fall, is known as a defensive defenseman as he failed to register a goal this season, but the Rangers scouting staff believes the offensive side may evolve with time.
“EJ is a very talented young man; he’s raw, very athletic and just starting to come into his own,” Rangers Director of Player Personnel and Amateur Scouting John Lilley said. “He has a lot of work to do getting a little bit stronger, but the foundation is there, excellent skater and his defensive game we found as a staff was one of the best in the entire draft—he ends plays and to me an elite defender.”
Emery combined for 22 assists over the split USNTDP schedule, but also registered six assists over only seven games at the U-18 World’s. He grew up in Surrey, British Columbia, but has dual citizen due to his parents, so he was able to come south to play.
“It’s a pretty exciting moment and I don’t know who was more excited, me or my mom,” Emery said post selection.
“I would say (my assets) are my skating ability and how well I play defense. I would say that I’m really good at being a lockdown guy, someone who can lock down plays and get the puck up the ice and make plays.
“I model after K’Andre Miller, so I not complaining about wearing this jersey.
And Emery is ready for the next step in his development heading up to North Dakota.
“The coaches and the fans and obviously the team made me feel at home and I know they’re going to look out for me. It’s the best stop for me.”
(Photos by Koz, NY Hockey OnLine)
