Hartford, Connecticut – – The New York Rangers have assigned forward Anton Blidh to the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League (AHL), the team announced today. The move comes as the Rangers navigate their roster ahead of a crucial stretch in the National Hockey League season.
Blidh, a 30-year-old Swedish national, has been a fixture in the Wolf Pack lineup this season, appearing in 28 games and registering seven points – three goals and four assists. He has also seen limited action with the Rangers, skating in two games for the NHL club. This assignment to Hartford allows him continued playing time and development within the Rangers organization.
AHL Veteran with NHL Experience
The native of Mölnlycke, Sweden, brings a wealth of experience to the Wolf Pack. Over four seasons with Hartford, Blidh has played in 180 games, accumulating 71 points (36 goals, 35 assists). His consistent performance has made him a valuable asset for the AHL affiliate.
Blidh’s career extends beyond Hartford, having skated in 87 career NHL games with the Rangers, Colorado Avalanche, and Boston Bruins. In those appearances, he has recorded 12 points (4 goals, 8 assists). His NHL experience provides leadership and a high level of play for the Wolf Pack.
Recent Performance and Career Highlights
Prior to this assignment, Blidh enjoyed a particularly strong 2024-25 season with the Wolf Pack, setting career highs in goals (19), assists (17), points (36), and penalty minutes (109). This performance underscored his importance to the team and his ability to contribute offensively and physically.
Blidh’s journey to North American professional hockey began after being drafted by the Boston Bruins in the sixth round (180th overall) of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. Before joining the Bruins organization, he honed his skills in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) with Frölunda HC, where he played 72 games and accumulated 10 points, alongside 28 penalty minutes.
Rangers’ Roster Management
The Rangers’ decision to assign Blidh reflects the team’s ongoing roster management strategy. With a competitive NHL roster, the organization utilizes the AHL to provide development opportunities for players like Blidh, ensuring they remain game-ready should they be called upon to contribute at the NHL level. Chris Drury, President and General Manager of the New York Rangers, made the announcement regarding the assignment.
Hartford Wolf Pack’s Season
The Hartford Wolf Pack, the primary player development affiliate of the New York Rangers, continue their season at PeoplesBank Arena. The team has become a key stepping stone for young Rangers prospects, including players like Igor Shesterkin, Will Cuylle, and Matt Rempe, who have all made significant contributions to the NHL club after developing their skills in Hartford.
The Wolf Pack’s season is powered by Verizon, and single-game tickets are currently on sale. The team encourages fans to support their journey as they develop the next generation of New York Rangers stars.
Blidh’s Early Career in Sweden
Before being drafted into the NHL, Blidh developed his game in Sweden, splitting his time between the Frolunda U-18 team and the Frolunda junior team during the 2012-2013 season. His impressive performance with the Frolunda junior team – 17 goals and 10 assists in 43 games – caught the attention of NHL scouts, ultimately leading to his selection by the Bruins.
Upon being drafted, Blidh immediately made an impact, debuting in the Swedish Hockey League with Frölunda HC during the 2013–14 SHL season. This early exposure to professional hockey in Sweden laid a strong foundation for his subsequent career in North America.
The assignment to Hartford allows Blidh to continue his development and contribute to a team with a strong track record of nurturing NHL talent. His experience and skill set will be valuable assets as the Wolf Pack pursue success in the AHL.
