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With the 43rd overall selection in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, the New York Rangers picked Malcolm Spence, a left winger from the Erie Otters who’s set to play for the University of Michigan. Spence measures 6-foot-1 and weighs 190 pounds. Known for his attention to detail, high hockey IQ, relentless forechecking, and non-stop work ethic, Spence may not be a flashy scorer, but he offers the kind of consistency that has been lacking in the Rangers' lineup.
Impacting the Game Without the Puck
Spence’s greatest strength lies in his play away from the puck. He stays active in the offensive zone, supports the cycle, and creates sustained pressure on defenders. He doesn't need the puck to make a difference—his ability to win puck battles, prolong possessions, and make smart, fast decisions under pressure makes him a strong supporting winger. Spence excels at the little things: he backchecks with purpose, anticipates plays well, and puts himself in the right positions to disrupt opponents before danger arises.
There are glimpses of offensive ability in his game as well. Spence can find soft spots in coverage, execute quick passes, and occasionally score in tight areas. He’s shown a knack for wraparound goals and getting pucks through traffic. While not a primary offensive driver, he rarely forces plays and typically makes sound decisions with the puck. Though his offensive ceiling isn’t particularly high, it’s enough to complement skilled teammates and contribute at the next level.
Skating and Developmental Outlook
Spence’s skating style matches his game. His low, wide stance offers strong balance and power through contact. Though not particularly explosive, he moves well enough to stay engaged on both sides of the puck. His solid edgework lets him react quickly during forechecks and backchecks, helping him stay involved and disruptive. Combined with his high compete level, Spence is a constant presence even if he's not the fastest skater on the ice.
The University of Michigan will likely be Spence’s home for the next two or three years, giving him time to develop his offensive instincts and gain confidence without sacrificing his structured style of play.
What Spence Adds to the Rangers
Malcolm Spence gives the Rangers something every contending team values—structure, reliability, and strong off-puck play. He’s not the kind of prospect who will grab headlines, but his game is rooted in habits that coaches trust. He pressures opponents, plays strong defensive hockey, and brings relentless energy. His size, skating, and detail-oriented approach give him a real shot at becoming a dependable NHL forward.
For a franchise that has often struggled to develop forwards outside of its top draft picks—Chris Kreider being a rare exception—Spence represents a promising step toward building depth the right way. He has the potential to become a stabilizing middle-six winger, someone who excels in tough minutes, wins small battles, and makes life easier for his linemates. On a playoff-caliber team, that kind of player is invaluable.
His continued development at Michigan is the right move. With time, he could become more confident with the puck, sharpen his reads, and grow into a more assertive offensive player. If he stays true to his identity and progresses steadily, Spence could become a reliable, cost-effective winger who fills a crucial role for the Rangers—and under the right circumstances, perhaps even emerges as a top-six contributor.
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