Adam Fox has rapidly ascended to the top tier of NHL defensemen and established himself as one of the premier blueliners in New York Rangers history. At just 26 years old, Fox’s achievements are nothing short of remarkable. He claimed the Norris Trophy as the League’s top defenseman for the 2020-21 season, was named a First-Team All-Star twice (for the 2020-21 and 2022-23 seasons), and secured a spot on the Second-Team All-Star roster once (2023-24).
Over the past three seasons, Fox has consistently surpassed 70 points each year and has maintained a plus-18 rating or better throughout his five-season career. Notably, he set new career highs in goals for three consecutive seasons, culminating in 17 goals during the 2023-24 season.
Given these impressive credentials, a compelling debate arises: Is Adam Fox the greatest right-shot defenseman in the history of the Rangers? The field of competition may not be as formidable as it initially appears. Among the top 50 highest-scoring defensemen in the franchise’s history, only 18 are right-handed shooters. None of the five defensemen who played over 800 games for the Rangers were right-handed, nor were any of the nine out of 13 defensemen inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame with the Rangers. The four right-handed shooters inducted into the Hall of Fame combined for fewer than 288 games with the Rangers. Fox, who has already played 357 games and is on track to surpass 400 games by mid-season, is poised to make a significant impact.
When comparing Fox to other right-shot defensemen in Rangers history, the question becomes increasingly compelling. Fox’s five seasons with the Rangers have seen him play 357 games, during which he has amassed 53 goals, 255 assists, and 308 points, boasting a plus-108 rating and averaging 0.86 points per game. Remarkably, Fox’s three 70-point seasons surpass those of any other Rangers defenseman aside from Brian Leetch. With 308 career points already placing him seventh among Rangers defensemen, a few more productive seasons could elevate him into the top four all-time.
Fox’s skill set is extensive. He excels in his own zone, transitions the puck seamlessly, and serves as the top power-play quarterback the Rangers have had since Leetch’s era. His shooting ability, while not explosive, is precise, reminiscent of Hall of Famer Nicklas Lidstrom, allowing him to consistently get shots through to the net and create opportunities for his teammates.
Hailing from Jericho, New York, Fox made it clear during his time at Harvard that the Rangers were his preferred team, and his decision to join them has proven fortuitous for the franchise. As Fox continues to develop and refine his game, his legacy as one of the Rangers’ greatest right-shot defensemen is solidifying.