A Long Journey to the NHL

For young New York Rangers defenseman Matthew Robertson, the path to the NHL has been a challenging one. Drafted 49th overall in the second round of the 2019 NHL Draft, Robertson spent four seasons developing in the AHL before finally receiving a call-up at the end of last season.

Stepping Up in the Lineup

With the Rangers eliminated from playoff contention last year, Robertson made his NHL debut in the final two games, finishing with three shots on goal and a positive +3 rating. This season, due to injuries and underwhelming performances from other players, he has quickly transitioned from being the extra defenseman to a key player in the lineup.

Making the Most of His Chance

At just 24 years old, Robertson has embraced this opportunity. “I’ve waited a long time for this,” he stated. “I came into camp not knowing what to expect, and I’m just grateful for the opportunity. Trying to make the most of every opportunity I get and trying to get better each day.”

First Career Goal

In his last four games, Robertson has showcased his potential. He scored his first career goal on Saturday night against the Montreal Canadiens, firing a shot from the point that found its way past goaltender Sam Montembeault, giving the Rangers their first lead in the third period.

Bouncing Back from Mistakes

Robertson’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. He experienced a notable setback early in the game when a turnover led to an odd-man rush for the Canadiens, resulting in the opening goal. However, head coach Mike Sullivan praised Robertson’s ability to rebound from that mistake. “As a young player, sometimes that can affect a guy,” Sullivan remarked. “What I loved about it is just his response — his ability to shake it off and just play. Watching him the rest of the night, he was competing and playing hard; it didn’t affect his confidence or swagger.”

Looking Ahead

If Robertson continues to build on his confidence and performance, he could very well establish himself as a permanent fixture in the Rangers’ lineup.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.

William Caldwell is a veteran journalist whose career has spanned the highs and lows of the sports world. With a focus on baseball and hockey, William’s articles are known for their depth and historical perspective, making him a favorite among fans who appreciate the rich traditions of sports. Outside the press box, William is an amateur historian with a particular interest in sports memorabilia.