Carey Terrance, a recent acquisition by the New York Rangers in the Chris Kreider trade, made his on-ice debut with the team during their development camp. Though his drills showed some rough edges and his finishing lacked sharpness, the Rangers coaching staff, including player development coach Jed Ortmeyer, were encouraged by his openness to feedback.
Rather than reacting defensively, Terrance welcomed coaching and asked for honest input, demonstrating a mature, growth-oriented mindset. His eagerness to improve left a lasting positive impression on the organization.
Versatile, Team-First Player with Gold Medal Experience and Relentless Work Ethic
Terrance was drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the second round of the 2023 NHL Draft and brings with him a strong track record of success, including three gold medals representing Team USA at various junior international tournaments. Despite his accolades, Terrance’s path has been anything but smooth.
He’s consistently earned his roles through determination and willingness to adapt ranging from being a top scorer in the Ontario Hockey League with Erie to accepting limited roles, such as penalty killer and bottom-six forward, for Team USA in the World Juniors.
Chris Kreider (NHL)What sets Terrance apart is not just his skill, but his willingness to embrace whatever role is asked of him. Whether it’s being scratched from a lineup or playing heavy minutes on the penalty kill, Terrance never complains. Coaches and teammates alike praise his attitude and versatility.
According to U.S. coach David Carle, Terrance has a rare ability to fit seamlessly into any line or situation, always putting the team first and maintaining a positive presence. His defensive awareness and reliability are traits he takes pride in, particularly in high-stakes, championship-level tournaments.
Leadership Through Voice, Accountability, and Relentless Drive on Both Ends of the Ice
Terrance leads both by example and with his voice. He’s known for being vocal on the ice, holding both himself and his teammates accountable. That leadership style stems from his intense competitiveness and deep commitment to team success.
Carle emphasized that Terrance thrives in playoff hockey environments due to his attention to detail across all 200 feet of the ice. His ability to communicate with coaches, embrace responsibility, and bring consistency in his play makes him a player who elevates those around him.
While Terrance still needs to refine aspects of his game particularly his skating and offensive finish his overall skill set and mindset make him a promising NHL prospect. Carle compared his potential range to players like Jonathan Toews, Sam Bennett, or Vincent Trocheck, noting that even if Terrance doesn’t reach that elite tier, his competitiveness and utility still guarantee him a role.
At worst, he could become a Nate Thompson-type player: a dependable, well-liked team-first center who carves out a long NHL career. Either way, the Rangers see Carey Terrance as a valuable piece for the future.
