Gabe Perreault Joins Rangers as Team Pursues Playoff Spot

TARRYTOWN, N.Y. — New York Rangers forward Gabe Perreault is set to make a pivotal impact as the team battles for a wild-card spot in the NHL playoffs. Following Boston College‘s early exit from the NCAA Regionals, where they lost 3-1 to Denver, Perreault was signed by the Rangers on March 31, 2025, after he completed his college season.

Perreault, a 19-year-old winger and the Rangers’ top prospect, is no stranger to pressure situations, having won two gold medals at the World Junior Championships. He expressed eagerness to contribute to the team’s success without placing excessive expectations on himself. “Obviously, you want to make an impact, but I’m not trying to set any crazy expectations,” Perreault said during a press conference. “Just trying to make my linemates better and help the team win.”

During his time at Boston College, Perreault recorded an impressive 108 points in just 73 games. He noted that deciding to leave his college team and friends behind was a difficult choice but believed it was the right time to transition to the NHL. His physicality developed noticeably during his sophomore year, moving from 165 pounds to 178 pounds, which he attributes to refining both his offensive and defensive play.

Coaches and teammates welcomed him enthusiastically, with Rangers General Manager Chris Drury communicating frequently with Perreault in the lead-up to his signing. Perreault received congratulatory messages from his new teammates, including Chris Kreider, a fellow Boston College alum.

Rangers coach Peter Laviolette acknowledged the mixed emotions regarding Perreault’s transition, saying, “Unfortunate his (college) season is over. But fortunate for us, he’s now a member of the New York Rangers.” The team is undergoing roster changes, having traded away several players this season, and these actions have opened opportunities for younger talent like Perreault.

As Perreault joined the team for practice on Tuesday, expectations for his debut were high. He was placed on a practice line with two of the Rangers’ top offensive contributors, Alexis Lafrenière and J.T. Miller. Laviolette hinted that the combination looked positive, suggesting a potential debut against the Minnesota Wild on Wednesday. “I think Laf thinks a lot like he does, and J.T. is a guy who has been around a long time and can really help mentor him,” Laviolette stated.

Fellow Rangers winger Brennan Othmann shared his excitement about Perreault’s arrival. Othmann, who has known Perreault since their time together at Rangers development camp, noted, “He’s playing with two players who are looking to score goals and Gabe has the ability to find those guys.” Othmann added that having another young player around adds a layer of camaraderie, especially as they navigate their first professional seasons.

While Perreault has dazzled at the college level, he acknowledges the NHL’s speed presents new challenges. “It’s definitely going to be quicker, but hopefully I can make the jump,” he said, looking forward to his potential debut.

As the Rangers are in critical pursuit of a playoff spot, Perreault’s contributions could be significant in their remaining games, as well as providing valuable experience for his budding career in the NHL.