Matthew Robertson Recalled by New York Rangers on February 22, 2025

On February 22, 2025, the New York Rangers made a significant roster move by recalling defenseman Matthew Robertson from the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack. This decision marks a pivotal moment in Robertson’s career and signals the Rangers’ ongoing commitment to strengthening their defensive depth as they make a push toward the postseason. As the NHL season enters its critical stretch, the timing of this recall is crucial, both for Robertson’s development and for the Rangers’ playoff aspirations.

Robertson, a talented young defenseman with a strong two-way game, has been one of the most promising prospects in the Rangers’ system. His recall not only highlights his potential but also underscores the organization’s emphasis on developing homegrown talent to contribute at the highest level. The decision to bring Robertson up at this juncture speaks volumes about the team’s confidence in his abilities and their need for additional depth on the blue line.

A Look at Robertson’s Journey to the NHL

Matthew Robertson was selected by the New York Rangers in the second round (49th overall) of the 2019 NHL Draft. A native of Edmonton, Alberta, Robertson was highly regarded for his combination of size, mobility, and hockey IQ. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing in at 202 pounds, Robertson brings a solid physical presence to the ice, but it’s his intelligence and positioning that make him stand out as a well-rounded defender.

Before being drafted, Robertson played for the Western Hockey League’s (WHL) Edmonton Oil Kings, where he spent three seasons honing his skills. In his final season with the Oil Kings (2019-2020), Robertson was one of the top defensemen in the league, racking up 50 points (10 goals and 40 assists) in 62 games. His performance earned him a spot in the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) Top Prospects Game, solidifying his status as one of the most promising young blue-liners in junior hockey.

After joining the Rangers organization, Robertson spent time with both their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack, and participated in several training camps with the Rangers. His time in Hartford was instrumental in his development, as he learned the nuances of professional hockey and refined his skills. In particular, Robertson’s poise with the puck, ability to read the game, and physicality on the back end became key components of his play in the AHL.

Over the past two seasons, Robertson has established himself as one of the top defensemen for the Wolf Pack. His leadership qualities, paired with his steadily improving offensive game, have made him a standout on the blue line. Robertson’s ability to contribute in all situations, from the power play to the penalty kill, further demonstrates his versatility and readiness for the NHL.

Why the Rangers Recalled Robertson Now

The timing of Robertson’s recall comes at a critical moment for the Rangers. As the team navigates the second half of the 2024-2025 NHL season, their playoff hopes are firmly in the balance. The Rangers have had a solid year, but they are in a highly competitive Eastern Conference, where every game is a battle for positioning. With the team looking to solidify its place in the postseason, adding depth and fresh talent to the roster is crucial.

The defense has been one area where the Rangers have looked to improve in recent weeks. While they have a strong top-four group, injuries and inconsistencies in the lower pairings have left the team searching for a reliable option to stabilize the back end. By recalling Robertson, the Rangers are not only addressing a need for depth, but they are also giving a young player a chance to make an impact at the highest level.

Robertson’s recall also highlights the Rangers’ focus on internal development. Rather than making a trade for an established defenseman, the team has opted to give one of their top prospects an opportunity to contribute. This speaks to the organization’s faith in their pipeline and their belief that Robertson has the potential to be a key player for the franchise moving forward. Given the team’s current standing in the league and their long-term goals, this recall is an important step in giving Robertson a chance to prove he belongs on the NHL stage.

Additionally, Robertson’s playing style is a good fit for the Rangers’ system. Known for his strong defensive play and ability to move the puck efficiently, he has the tools to succeed in New York’s up-tempo, transition-based game. His ability to break up opposing plays and transition the puck out of the defensive zone will complement the Rangers’ quick offensive game and help contribute to a more balanced team.

What Robertson Brings to the Table

Matthew Robertson is a versatile defenseman who can contribute in a variety of ways. His size and physicality allow him to play a shutdown role against opposing forwards, using his body and stick positioning to defend the front of the net and deny entry into the defensive zone. Robertson’s ability to read the play and make smart, calculated decisions under pressure makes him a reliable presence in the defensive zone.

Offensively, Robertson has shown significant growth over the past few seasons. While he’s not known as an offensive dynamo, he has a keen sense for the game and can contribute offensively when needed. His strong skating ability and quick decision-making allow him to join the rush and create offensive opportunities for his teammates. In particular, his ability to make breakout passes and transition the puck quickly is a valuable asset in today’s fast-paced game.

Robertson’s hockey IQ is one of his most valuable assets. He is rarely caught out of position, and his ability to make quick decisions under pressure is a testament to his mental acuity. This ability allows him to thrive in high-pressure situations, such as the penalty kill or when defending a one-goal lead in the final minutes of a game. His calm demeanor on the ice and ability to stay composed during crucial moments make him an ideal candidate for the Rangers as they navigate their postseason push.

Another aspect of Robertson’s game that could prove valuable for the Rangers is his ability to play both a physical and disciplined brand of hockey. While he’s not known for dropping the gloves or engaging in unnecessary roughness, Robertson’s physical play in front of the net and along the boards helps clear space for his goaltender and disrupt opposing forwards. His size and strength allow him to battle for puck possession in the corners and shield the puck effectively.

The Rangers’ Defensive Depth and Robertson’s Role

The Rangers have a solid core of defensemen, including veterans such as Adam Fox, Jacob Trouba, and K’Andre Miller, who have been key contributors all season. However, depth on the blue line has been a concern at times, especially with the team dealing with injuries and the wear and tear of a long season. Robertson’s recall provides a fresh option for head coach Gerard Gallant, who will likely integrate him into the lineup as needed.

Robertson could fill a number of roles on the Rangers’ defense. Depending on matchups and needs, he could slot into the bottom pairing alongside a more experienced defenseman or play in a more sheltered role while gaining confidence. The Rangers will also likely give him time on special teams, especially the penalty kill, where his defensive instincts and positioning can be maximized.

Another important factor is Robertson’s ability to provide depth in the event of injury. With the rigors of an NHL season and the physicality that comes with it, injuries are inevitable. Having a player like Robertson on standby gives the Rangers more flexibility in case a key defenseman goes down. His recall also adds much-needed competition within the defensive ranks, pushing other players to perform at a high level.

What’s Next for Robertson

For Matthew Robertson, this recall represents an important opportunity to showcase his skills on the NHL stage. While the 2025 season is still ongoing, this is a chance for Robertson to prove that he is ready to compete at the highest level. The time he spends with the Rangers in the coming weeks could set the tone for his future with the organization, as he looks to establish himself as a mainstay on the blue line for years to come.

If Robertson performs well during his stint with the Rangers, it could pave the way for him to earn a regular spot in the lineup, especially as the team continues to navigate the grind of a full NHL season. With the team’s playoff aspirations on the line, Robertson will be tasked with making the most of his opportunities and showing that he is capable of contributing to the Rangers’ success in high-stakes situations.

In the long term, this recall could be the first step in Robertson’s development into a key player for the Rangers. If he continues to show growth and improvement, he could become an integral part of the team’s defensive core, complementing established stars like Fox and Trouba while providing a steady, reliable presence on the back end.