Rangers prospect, Zachary Jones speaks with Forever Blueshirts about his future
The Rangers selected with the 68th pick of the 2019 NHL Draft, offensive defenseman Zachary Jones. In 56 games with Tri-City Storm of the USHL, Jones compiled 52 points and is a proven puck mover with excellent skating skills.
Next fall Jones is committed to UMass-Amherst and will be starting his freshman campaign. Recently, Jones played for the United States during the Summer Showcase, and played very well. “He just has that vision and that ability to not panic under pressure,” said Rangers scout Larry Bernard.
Zac was nice enough to take the time out of his busy schedule to do an interview for Forever Blueshirts and we hope you enjoy.
What was your experience like being drafted by the New York Rangers, an original six franchise?
Zac – Getting to hear my name called by any team would’ve been a special moment but for it to be the Rangers, it just made it that much more special to me. The history the organization has is unbelievable and the organization is as top notch as you can get.
How do you feel playing in the NCAA will help you grow and develop as a player?
Zac – I think that playing college hockey will help me grow tremendously as a player. Just getting to be able to work out and skate whenever I want to is something that not a lot of teams in major junior can say that they do. I’ll be able to work on every aspect of my game at UMass.
What was the summer showcase like playing with top prospects from multiple countries?
Zac – The summer showcase was an awesome experience for myself. Getting to play against and with the top guys in the world was something that I would’ve never expected could’ve happened to me. I felt really comfortable out there and wasn’t too worried about the big name guys on each roster.
What part of your game do you want to focus on most as you move to the next phase of your young career?
Zac – I’d say the biggest thing in my game is my strength. I need to get bigger to hopefully be able to play in the NHL someday. I’d say also my forward skating is something that I am really looking forward to improving while I’m at UMass.
Was Cale Makar a reason for choosing UMass-Amherst?
Zac – Cale actually wasn’t even at school yet when I committed to UMass. I fell in love with the campus as soon as I got on my tour. The coaching staff and the support staff at UMass is the best in the country. They really know how to get the best out of each and every player.
Have you spoken to Cale Makar about life at UMass-Amherst and their program?
Zac – I’ve talked to Cale a little but about school. He’s just told me not to worry too much about anything and to just play my game and everything will take care of itself. He’s told me to make sure I have a good routine which is something that I will definitely make sure happens when I start the school year this coming fall.
We thank Zachary Jones again for taking a little time out of his busy schedule to give us some of his thoughts as he embarks on becoming a Ranger in the future.
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