NHL Future Watch: Zac Jones Hockey Cards, New York Rangers – Zachary Jones was drafted by the New York Rangers with the 68th overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft, and he looks to be the next wave in the Rangers defense options. Born in Glen Allen, Virginia, he proves hockey is everywhere. This talented defenseman has a chance to make his mark in the NHL sometime this season or next. Currently, his development is ahead of schedule.
After spending time in some high-level leagues as a youngster, Jones joined the Tri-City Storm in 2018-19. He turned out to be one of the top defensemen in the USHL with 52 points in 56 games. He was voted on the All-Rookie Team; Rookie of the Year, and he led all blueliners with 45 assists.
Jones has met every challenge that has been put in front of him. This quick defenseman can bring the puck up the ice with ease and work the power play if needed. His passing is very good, and his defense is coming around. He can hold the puck and control the play. The fact that he’s 5’10” is never an issue.
Jones chose to attend UMass to play NCAA hockey. 2019-20 was his first season with them, and he scored 23 points in 32 games. He led all UMass defenseman in points as a rookie. He was voted to the Hockey East All-Rookie team. Once again, Jones took another step.
In 2020-21, I covered the Frozen Four game that crowned UMass as National Champions. Jones had nine goals and 24 points in 29 games. He was voted as an NCAA East Second-Team All-American as well. In the final game against powerhouse Minnesota-Duluth, Jones had a beautiful top-shelf goal to give his team the lead and eventual win.
NHL Future Watch: Zac Jones Hockey Cards, New York Rangers – Cards Worth Chasing
In 2020-21, he played mostly with Hartford and was being used in emergencies with the Rangers. He’s close to being an NHLer, and his first year in the AHL has been as terrific as expected. This kid has the stuff, so let’s see what his best cards are to date.
Jones has a rookie card in 2021-22 Upper Deck MVP Hockey. It’s a nice shot of him after he’s made a shot or a pass. Jones is always in motion, always looking to make an offensive play.
MVP is the only release to date that has cards of this emerging prospect. Jones has a silver script card that looks great. Collectors should get in on the ground floor with this player.
NHL Future Watch: Zac Jones Hockey Cards, New York Rangers – Stats
NHL Future Watch: Zac Jones Hockey Cards, New York Rangers – More Resources
NHL Future Watch: Zac Jones Hockey Cards, New York Rangers
For more from Russ Cohen, follow him on Twitter @sportsology.
Russ Cohen
is the author of several top-selling sports related books.
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