A disappointing Rangers prospect will leave the organization after three seasons to return to Sweden.
The New York Rangers selected Karl Henriksson with the 58th overall pick in the 2019 NHL draft. The center/left winger prospect signed an entry-level contract in 2021 and will begin his professional career with the Hartford Wolf Pack in 2022.
Henriksson has made little impression since joining the Blueshirts. His ELC is set to end this summer, and his future with the organization appears to be bleak.
Karl Henriksson will leave North America to play in the SHL.
The Växjö Lakers of the Swedish Hockey League announced Thursday morning that they had signed Henriksson to a three-year contract.
It’s no surprise that Henriksson is seeking for new professional chances elsewhere. Since signing with the Rangers, the promising prospect has struggled in the American Hockey League. He has only 40 points in 134 career games with the Wolf Pack, making it unlikely that he will play in the NHL.
Rangers’ prospect pool takes a hit with Henriksson’s departure.
Although it is disheartening to see a second-round prospect leave the club shortly after the conclusion of his ELC, Henriksson’s decision does not imperil the Rangers’ future. Dylan Roobroeck, Bryce McConnell-Barker, and Alex Belzile are among the Blueshirts’ remaining strong young center prospects.
With Henriksson’s departure, it becomes vital that the Rangers’ remaining prospects are properly fostered.
