The New York Rangers hold the 12th overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. While not as flashy as a top-three selection, history proves that No. 12 picks often go on to have impactful NHL careers. But the spot comes with its risks just ask Rangers fans who remember Hugh Jessiman, drafted 12th in 2003, who never played a game for the team and remains a symbol of a first-round miss.
That uncertainty is what makes picks in this range so intriguing they can produce stars or disappointments depending on scouting, player development, and a bit of luck. As the Rangers gear up for this year’s draft, here’s a look at 10 notable players taken 12th overall since 2000 (listed chronologically):
- Marc Staal (2005, Rangers): A key blueliner in New York for 13 seasons, Staal played 1,136 NHL games, reached the Stanley Cup Final twice (2014 with the Rangers, 2023 with Florida), and retired in 2024 to join New York’s development staff.
- Bryan Little (2006, Thrashers): Little scored 521 points in 834 games with the Thrashers/Jets, consistently producing as a top-six forward before injuries ended his career.
- Ryan McDonagh (2007, Canadiens): Dealt to the Rangers before debuting, McDonagh captained New York, won two Stanley Cups with Tampa Bay, and surpassed 1,000 NHL games in 2025.
- Tyler Myers (2008, Sabres): Myers won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year, logged over 1,000 games, and became a steady presence for multiple teams including Buffalo, Winnipeg, and Vancouver.
- Calvin de Haan (2009, Islanders): Known for his defensive reliability, de Haan played for several teams across nearly 700 NHL games and finished the 2025 season with the Rangers.
- Cam Fowler (2010, Ducks): Fowler became Anaheim’s longest-serving player before a 2024 trade to St. Louis. A skilled offensive defenseman, he hit 1,000 games in an outdoor contest.
- Max Domi (2013, Coyotes): The versatile forward has played for seven teams, tallying over 450 points in 735 games, and currently plays for Toronto.
- Martin Necas (2017, Hurricanes): A talented playmaker, Necas was traded to Colorado in 2025 after consistent 20-goal seasons and big playoff moments.
- Noah Dobson (2018, Islanders): Emerging as a top power-play defenseman, Dobson’s breakout came in 2023-24 with 70 points before a dip in production last season.
- Matthew Boldy (2019, Wild): A dynamic scorer, Boldy has quickly become a key piece for Minnesota, averaging nearly a point per game since entering the league.
