The New York Rangers have completed a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins involving the 12th overall pick in the upcoming NHL draft. The Rangers had sent a conditional first-round pick to the Vancouver Canucks last season as part of the acquisition of forward J.T. Miller. The condition allowed New York to send this pick to Pittsburgh if their 2025 first-round pick was in the top 13. After finishing 11th in the Eastern Conference, the Rangers secured the 12th overall pick.

This strategic move allows the Rangers to retain their 2026 first-round pick, giving them flexibility either to bolster their roster for a playoff push or potentially acquire a high draft pick in a strong 2026 draft class featuring standout prospects like Gavin McKenna. Meanwhile, the Penguins now hold back-to-back first-round picks, giving them a powerful opportunity to enhance their roster.