New York Rangers defenseman Matthew Robertson is set to face his hometown team, the Edmonton Oilers, at Madison Square Garden on Tuesday, marking a special moment for the 24-year-old. Hailing from Edmonton, Robertson previously shone as a member of the local junior team, the Oil Kings, in the Western Hockey League between 2017 and 2021.
After a series of healthy scratches in the season’s initial games, Robertson finally got his chance on Sunday when he stepped in for the injured veteran Carson Soucy during a match against the Washington Capitals, where he recorded a commendable 18:08 of ice time. Though the Rangers fell 1-0, his performance was noted as solid; he posted a 64.2 expected goal share, contributing to a 12-4 scoring chance advantage for the Rangers while he was on the ice at even strength.
Coach Mike Sullivan acknowledged Robertson’s effective game, praising his size, mobility, and sensible puck management. This marks just the third NHL appearance of his professional career, after he made a brief debut late last season. Despite earlier struggles in the American Hockey League, where injuries hampered his progress, Robertson turned his career around with a notable performance last season, leading Hartford defensemen in points and demonstrating improved defensive skills.
Robertson’s recent rise comes with a significant opportunity as the Rangers deal with injuries on the blue line. Soucy’s condition, particularly considering its potential severity following a head-first fall into the boards, leaves the team cautious as they manage his recovery. With highly-regarded defenseman Scott Morrow unavailable for recall due to salary cap constraints, Robertson finds himself in a position to showcase his abilities further and prove he deserves a more permanent role within the Rangers’ roster.
The situation presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Robertson. If he can continue performing strongly, he may solidify his place on the team and be a key part of their plans moving forward. The matchup against a star-like Connor McDavid will serve as a pivotal test for the young defenseman and a chance to demonstrate his capability on a larger stage. As he steps onto the ice, fans are hopeful that Robertson will seize this moment to establish himself as a valuable player for the Rangers.