The New York Rangers are one of the most storied franchises in the National Hockey League, with a rich history that spans over a century. Founded in 1926, the Rangers were one of the Original Six teams that shaped the early years of professional hockey in North America. Throughout their long existence, they have had a plethora of talented players who not only dazzled fans with their skill but also helped define the identity of the franchise. From Stanley Cup champions to Hall of Famers, the Rangers’ history is peppered with legends whose impact transcended the ice. Ranking the top 25 players in New York Rangers history is no small task. This list reflects the combination of individual excellence, contributions to team success, leadership, and lasting legacy within the Rangers organization and the broader hockey world.
The story of the Rangers begins with the likes of Bill Cook, the team’s first captain and scoring star. Cook was a dynamic winger who led the Rangers to their first Stanley Cup in 1928 and set the tone for what it meant to be a Ranger. His scoring prowess and leadership made him an early icon. Alongside his brother Bun Cook, the Cook brothers were pivotal in the Rangers’ formative years. Bill’s ability to score in clutch moments and his gentlemanly style made him beloved among fans and peers alike.
Another early legend was Frank Boucher, who was as elegant with the puck as he was intelligent on the ice. Boucher won the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship seven times, which remains a record, demonstrating not only his skill but also his class. His tenure with the Rangers as a center spanned from the late 1920s through the early 1940s. Boucher’s influence extended beyond playing, as he later served as a coach and executive for the team, solidifying his place as one of the Rangers’ foundational figures.
Fast forward to the 1940s and 50s, the Rangers had players like Buddy O’Connor and Andy Bathgate. O’Connor, a skilled center, helped the Rangers compete fiercely during his era, while Bathgate was known for his scoring touch and gritty determination. Bathgate’s offensive output made him a multiple-time All-Star and a critical part of the team’s offense during the 1950s and 60s. His leadership and scoring ability made him one of the most feared forwards of his time.
The 1970s brought about one of the most iconic Rangers, Rod Gilbert. “Mr. Ranger” himself, Gilbert was a right winger who embodied the heart and soul of the franchise. He was the first Ranger to have his number retired, and for good reason. Gilbert’s combination of skill, work ethic, and loyalty made him a true fan favorite. His career point totals and his leadership qualities helped elevate the team through some of its toughest periods.
Alongside Gilbert was Jean Ratelle, a center with superb playmaking abilities and scoring acumen. Ratelle was a consistent offensive threat, known for his vision on the ice and ability to orchestrate the offense. He was part of the famous “GAG line” (Goal-A-Game line) alongside Gilbert and Vic Hadfield, which terrorized opponents with its scoring prowess.
Vic Hadfield, the left winger on the GAG line, was known for his physical play and scoring touch. Hadfield served as captain and brought toughness combined with skill, a rare blend that was vital to the Rangers’ competitiveness in the 1970s. This trio’s chemistry helped the Rangers remain relevant during an era filled with powerhouse teams.
The 1980s brought the Rangers Wayne Gretzky’s era—well, not directly, but the team featured its own stars who made significant impacts. One such player was Mark Messier, who joined the Rangers in 1991 and helped transform the team’s fortunes. Messier was the ultimate leader and competitor, known for his tenacity and clutch performances. His arrival heralded a new era for the Rangers, culminating in the franchise’s first Stanley Cup win in 54 years in 1994.
Messier’s leadership in 1994, including his iconic guarantee of a Game 6 victory in the Eastern Conference Finals against the New Jersey Devils, epitomizes why he is often ranked as the greatest Ranger of all time. His two-way play, scoring, and motivational presence were instrumental in breaking the Rangers’ championship drought. Beyond his on-ice performance, Messier’s legacy is also in how he elevated the team’s culture and brought belief back to a weary fanbase.
Other key contributors to the 1994 Stanley Cup-winning team include Brian Leetch, arguably the best defenseman in Rangers history. Leetch revolutionized the role of a defenseman with his offensive creativity and defensive reliability. He won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP that year, the only defenseman to do so while playing for the Rangers. His ability to control the game from the blue line and his clutch scoring made him an indispensable part of the team’s success.
Alongside Leetch was Mike Richter, the goaltender whose stellar play between the pipes was critical to the 1994 championship. Richter’s agility, composure, and timely saves made him one of the top goalies of his era. His role in the playoffs, including shutting down high-powered offenses, was a testament to his skill and competitive spirit.
Other notable players from that era who contributed significantly include Adam Graves, whose grit, scoring ability, and leadership embodied the blue-collar spirit of New York hockey. Graves’ record-setting 52 goals in the 1993-94 season made him a crucial offensive weapon. His physical play and willingness to do whatever it took for the team earned him lasting respect.
Looking beyond the championship era, the Rangers have had numerous other great players. Rod Gilbert’s successor as the team’s scoring leader was none other than Mark Messier, but also players like Brian Leetch set new standards for excellence. Additionally, players such as Walt Tkaczuk, a tireless defensive forward, and Ed Giacomin, a beloved goaltender before Richter’s era, are often remembered fondly for their dedication and impact.
In the 2000s and 2010s, the Rangers featured stars like Henrik Lundqvist, who became one of the greatest goaltenders in NHL history. Lundqvist’s calm demeanor, incredible reflexes, and consistency earned him the nickname “King Henrik.” He played over 15 seasons with the Rangers, setting numerous franchise records for wins and shutouts. Lundqvist was a six-time All-Star and the heart of the Rangers through ups and downs. His presence gave the team a competitive edge and brought hope to the fans through multiple playoff runs.
Alongside Lundqvist, players such as Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, and Ryan Callahan served as leaders who combined skill with passion. Drury, a clutch scorer and two-way forward, captained the team and was integral during his tenure. Callahan brought a relentless work ethic and defensive responsibility, embodying the blue-collar mindset.
In recent years, the Rangers have seen the emergence of exciting young talent such as Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Adam Fox. Panarin, an elite offensive talent, dazzles with his creativity and scoring touch. Zibanejad has become a top-tier center known for his two-way game and ability to produce in critical moments. Fox, a dynamic defenseman, combines offensive skill with defensive responsibility and has quickly become a cornerstone on the blue line.
These modern stars continue the Rangers’ tradition of combining skill, heart, and leadership to build competitive teams aiming for championship glory.
Ranking the top 25 players in Rangers history takes all these eras into account. The players who not only posted great statistics but who also demonstrated leadership, helped win championships, and contributed to the team’s identity rise to the top of the list.
Mark Messier is almost universally regarded as the greatest Ranger of all time. His leadership and impact on the 1994 Stanley Cup cannot be overstated. Alongside him, Brian Leetch’s unique blend of offensive skill and defensive mastery, combined with his Conn Smythe-winning playoff performance, places him in the top tier. Henrik Lundqvist’s consistent excellence and franchise records make him the modern face of the Rangers and a top all-time player.
Rod Gilbert, as the original “Mr. Ranger,” holds a special place for his scoring and embodiment of Rangers pride. Jean Ratelle, with his steady offense and class, deserves a spot near the top. Adam Graves’ combination of grit and scoring in the championship run cements his place. Mike Richter’s clutch goaltending in 1994 is unforgettable.
Other notable players who rank highly include Eddie Giacomin, a beloved goalie from the 1960s and 70s; Bill Cook, the first star of the franchise; and Frank Boucher, whose sportsmanship and skill helped shape the Rangers’ early decades.
Players like Rod Langway, Vic Hadfield, and Walt Tkaczuk are also remembered for their contributions during various competitive eras. The list also includes more recent stars such as Pavel Buchnevich and Chris Kreider, who have shown great potential and contributions.
The legacy of the Rangers’ top players is not just measured in goals, assists, or wins but in how they represented the team’s grit, passion, and resilience. The Blueshirts have always been a team proud of its identity as a tough, hardworking squad that plays with intensity. The top 25 players in Rangers history are those who best embodied these qualities while delivering outstanding performances.
As the franchise continues to build toward future success, the legends of the past remain a guiding light for players and fans alike. Their stories inspire the current generation to uphold the proud tradition of the New York Rangers—a team that has given hockey fans countless unforgettable moments over nearly 100 years. From the early pioneers to the modern stars, these 25 players define what it means to be a Blueshirt legend, representing the spirit and heart of New York hockey.
