Dylan Garand continues to progress as the New York Rangers’ top goaltending prospect. The 22-year-old just wrapped up his best professional season with the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack and is positioning himself as the likely future backup to Igor Shesterkin.
While that promotion likely won’t happen in the 2025–26 season since veteran Jonathan Quick is under contract as the No. 2 goalie the 40-year-old’s age means Garand’s opportunity could come soon.
This past season, Garand overtook veteran Louis Domingue as Hartford’s clear starter and delivered a breakout year, recording career bests in wins (20), goals-against average (2.73), save percentage (.913), and shutouts (3).
Drafted in the fourth round in 2020, Garand is set to become a restricted free agent this summer after completing his entry-level deal. The Rangers are expected to retain him, likely with a short-term bridge contract.
Garand began his season strong, winning five of his first seven starts and consistently delivering quality performances throughout the year even when the team struggled. He was a workhorse down the stretch, starting 13 of Hartford’s final 19 games in their playoff push.
Statistically, Garand ranked among the AHL’s leaders: tied for 14th in wins, ninth in save percentage, sixth in shots faced, and 13th in total minutes played. In December, he earned AHL Goaltender of the Month honors, joining Igor Shesterkin as one of only a few Wolf Pack goalies to receive that recognition. He was also named to the 2025 AHL All-Star Classic.
Across three AHL seasons, Garand has posted a 49-42-16 record with a 2.92 GAA and .902 save percentage. In postseason play, he’s shined with a 10-7-0 record, 2.21 GAA, .927 save percentage, and two shutouts. His clutch performances extend to international play, where he helped Team Canada win the 2022 World Juniors and recently posted a shutout against Slovenia in the 2025 World Championships.
Looking ahead, Garand is expected to remain Hartford’s starting goalie next season. The Rangers’ goaltending depth includes Hugo Ollas, Callum Tung (a promising undrafted signee), and Talyn Boyko, also an RFA. Domingue’s departure to the KHL opens up a clearer path for Garand.
If Quick retires or isn’t re-signed after next season, Garand is a strong candidate to take over the backup role in 2026–27. He could even earn NHL time sooner if injuries arise. As the Rangers balance their win-now mindset with future planning, Garand is emerging as a key internal piece for their long-term success behind Shesterkin.
