Disappointing Rangers prospect set to leave organization after 3 seasons to return to Sweden

The New York Rangers once drafted Karl Henriksson with the 58th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft. The center/left winger prospect signed his entry-level contract in 2021 and began his professional career with the Hartford Wolf Pack in 2022.

Since signing with the Blueshirts, Henriksson hasn’t impressed much. With his ELC coming to an end this summer, his future with the organization seems to be coming to a disappointing end.

Karl Henriksson is leaving North America to play in the SHL

Early Thursday morning, the Växjö Lakers of the Swedish Hockey League announced that they had signed Henriksson to a three-year deal.

“It feels inspiring to come to Växjö.”

Karl Henriksson via VLHlive

It comes as no surprise that Henriksson is looking for other professional opportunities elsewhere. Since signing with the Rangers, the young prospect has struggled down in the AHL. He’s tallied just 40 points across 134 career games with the Wolf Pack, making his likelihood to one day reach the NHL slim.

• Could the Rangers strengthen their defense with a recently bought-out former All-Star?
• Rangers could replace team captain with star defenseman in free agency
• 3 prospects the Rangers could target in a first-round trade-up

Rangers’ prospect pool takes a hit with Henriksson leaving

Although it’s disappointing to see a second-round prospect leave the organization immediately following the end of his ELC, Henriksson’s departure doesn’t mean the Rangers’ future is jeopardized. The Blueshirts still maintain a handful of talented young center prospects in their system, including Dylan Roobroeck, Bryce McConnell-Barker, and Alex Belzile.

With Henriksson leaving, however, it becomes imperative that the Rangers’ remaining prospects are developed properly into solid NHL players. New York’s draft capital is depleted over the next three seasons, giving just a few chances to find upcoming talent for the future.