New York Rangers Reilly Smith continues to impress in training camp

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Ryan Hall
September 30, 2024 (8:17)

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It appears that Rangers general manager Chris Drury has hit a home run with the acquisition of Reilly Smith as he continues to impress in training camp.

The former Pittsburgh Penguins forward has been playing on the line with Chris Kreider and Mika Zibanejad as the team hopes that they can build chemistry and be that winger that they have sorely lacked over the past year or two.

Smith spoke to reporters and gave his take on what it's like to be the winger with both those players.

«Obviously offensive I want to produce and be diligently defensively at the same time,» Smith said. «I think both of those players compliment my game and I want to do the same for those guys. Chemistry is something that doesn't happen overnight, you gotta keep on building and keep on kind of pushing to get better every day and I think we are doing that. Taking it day-by-day, but I think we are on the right track.»

Smith will also bring another element to the dressing room as the 33-year-old forward had won the Stanley Cup two seasons ago.
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«I think any experience you get in the NHL goes a long way,» Smith said. «If you are not using that experience, you are kind of wasting your time. To win a Stanley Cup you learn a lot of things down the road»

Smith was drafted by the Dallas Stars in 2009, third round 69th overall. The Rangers will be his sixth NHL organization it has been a solid contributor offensively in every team he's played for. Last season was a dip in his production as he had played 76 games, scoring 13 goals with 27 assists for 40 points and had 18 penalty minutes.

He also explained that he wanted to arrive at the Rangers organization early in order to begin the process of becoming a Ranger after playing for their Metropolitan rivals.

«I tried to show up to camp here pretty early. I had a couple months to get adjusted for myself and my family and that helps a lot. For me everything has been smooth for transition and definitely helps to just focus on hockey.»

As opening night draws closer, Rangers fans will wait and see how Smith can become an integral part of their top 6.

Source: The Hockey News

Reilly Smith Continues To Improve Through Seamless Transition With Rangers