New York Rangers Draft Ben MacBeath 64th Overall

With the 64th pick in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, the New York Rangers have selected Ben MacBeath from the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League (WHL). 

About Ben MacBeath

Ben MacBeath is a good two-way defenseman, playing massive minutes for the Calgary Hitmen as a draft eligible. MacBeath is a great skater for his size and has the physicality and a smart enough stick to really put pressure on opponents defensively. He moves well in the offensive zone, shaking off checkers here and there, and making smart, though not exceptional, passes through layers.

After playing well in the BCHL last year, and having a strong WHL season today, I’m excited to see just how good MacBeath can be tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow in the NCAA next season as he has committed to play for David Carle with the University of Denver.

MacBeath isn’t likely to be a star in the NHL, but I can see him becoming a solid fourth or fifth defenseman on a good team with good two-way value. 

THW Prospect Profile Excerpt

“There are always a number of players that will fly under the radar for the 2026 NHL Draft and eventually catch the eye of everyone. That has been the case of Calgary Hitmen defender Ben MacBeath as he was definitely one name that continued to rise and grab everyone’s attention in the second half. MacBeath finished 12^th among rookie skaters in the Western Hockey league with 51 points and 16^th among defenders. It was an impressive rookie campaign for him and it’s clear to see why.”

“MacBeath’s strength lies in his quick puck movement and transitional play. He’s extremely confident when he has the puck, making quick and clean exits out of his zone and rushing into the offensive zone to set up an attack. He’s a smooth skater with great speed and edges, weaving his way through the neutral zone effectively to find the open lane.  His head is always scanning for a passing option, assessing everything and then making a quick play in order to get the puck out effectively and out of danger. He’s patient when he has the puck and can make strong passes on the breakout quickly to stretch the play forward, connecting with his teammates seamlessly.”

“Defensively there are some aspects that stand out and other areas of improvement for MacBeath. He does possess a sound two-way game. He is always in position when defending the rush, staying with his assignment and displaying an active stick to break a play up or prevent a passing option. He does a great job challenging puck carriers and keeping them to the outside. He can play the body well and can stop plays from developing.” – Peter Baracchini

Continue reading the full player profile here.

How This Affects the Rangers’ Plans?

Ben MacBeath is a big defender who impressed with the Calgary Hitmen this season. This was his first season at the major junior level after coming out of the BCHL last season, and he had an impressive debut year to be sure. As the last pick in the second round, I think MacBeath is a solid pick for the Rangers, and one who is a good bet to at least become an organizational depth piece that can pitch in some NHL games when injuries pile up, but could also become a good third pairing guy if things break right.