Men's Ice Hockey | 3/30/2026 12:00:07 PM

Drew Fortescue made his long-awaited NHL debut, marking a milestone moment in his young career and a night he won’t soon forget.

Fortescue developed through the USA Hockey National Team Development Program (NTDP), where he skated for two seasons. During his time in the United States Hockey League (USHL), he appeared in 56 USHL games, recording 13 points while continuing to grow into a reliable, steady presence on the blue line.

He went on to play three seasons at Boston College, where his game continued to take shape. In 2024–25, Fortescue posted 11 points, all assists, in 36 games before taking another step this season with four goals and 10 assists in 36 games, showcasing his ability to contribute at both ends of the ice. In total, the Pearl River, N.Y. native had 33 points and a +44 rating in 112 games. 

Fortescue made an early impact for the Rangers, earning an assist in his debut. Following the game, the significance of the moment was clear.

“It was something you always dream about, and for it to finally come true, I couldn't have wanted it any other way," Fortescue said. "It was awesome, and it was a day I'll always remember.”

For Fortescue, the debut wasn’t just about reaching the NHL — it was about years of work, sacrifice, and passion culminating in a moment every player chases. With his first game now behind him, it marks just the beginning of what he hopes will be a long career at the NHL level.

About the USHL

The United States Hockey Leauge (USHL) and its 16 teams are committed to being the world's leading junior hockey league. This season, more than 50% of NCAA Division I men's hockey players and nearly 25% of NHL players have USHL experience. The USHL has developed more than 285 direct NHL Draft picks since 2020, and eight of the last 10 Hobey Baker Award winners, including Macklin Celebrini (Chicago Steel).

Elevated through the recently announced Declaration of Excellence with the NHL and USA Hockey, the league's player-first approach, including a 2:1 practice-to-game ratio and a schedule with 90% of games played on weekends, provides its players with the optimal environment for athletic and personal growth, creating pathways for the next generation of stars like Auston Matthews (NTDP), Kyle Connor (Youngstown Phantoms), Jeremy Swayman (Sioux Falls Stampede), and Johnny Gaudreau (Dubuque Fighting Saints).