44 Joey Keane D

The Rangers traded Keane to the Hurricanes in exchange for Julien Gauthier on Tuesday.

As an organization. the Rangers are loaded with depth on the back end and are a little thin up front, so swapping a defensive prospect for a forward prospect makes sense. Keane will likely have a tough time carving out a regular role with Carolina next year, but he could develop into a nice offensive defenseman for the 'Canes over the next few seasons, as he's proven that he's capable of putting up points during his time with AHL Hartford in 2019-20, having racked up eight goals and 30 points in 49 games.

Keane was reassigned to AHL Hartford on Friday.

Keane didn't appear in Friday's game against the Blue Jackets, as Marc Staal overcame his illness quickly enough to make the appearance. With Anthony DeAngelo (upper body) hurt, Keane may be back with the big club before Sunday's game against the Bruins to serve as defensive depth.

Keane was promoted from AHL Hartford on Friday.

Keane's call-up comes after Marc Staal (illness) was unable to suit up versus Minnesota on Thursday. If the veteran blueliner remains unavailable, the 20-year-old Keane will provide emergency depth heading into Friday's clash with Columbus.

Keane and the Rangers agreed to an entry-level contract Monday.

Keane probably won't get a look at the highest level this season, but he can kick his professional career into high gear at AHL Hartford. Selected 88th overall in the 2018 Draft, the 19-year-old blueliner has eight goals and 29 helpers over 61 OHL games between the Barrie Colts and London Knights this season.

Keane was a surprise cut from the United States World Junior team roster on Sunday.

Keane will be returning to OHL Barrie instead of competing in the tournament. As a right-handed shot who can fill a variety of roles, Keane certainly appeared to have the inside track to a spot on the club, but the United States coaching staff opted for Philadelphia fourth-rounder Jack St. Ivany instead. It's disappointing for Keane, but there is little doubt that the 2018 third-round selection has seen his stock rise in a major way this season.

Keane picked up a goal and added an assist in OHL Barrie's 4-2 win over Sault Ste. Marie on Sunday.

With 20 points in 28 games for the Colts, Keane is on the exact same scoring pace he was a season ago in which he posted 44 points in 62 games for Barrie. Keane moves the puck well and is an asset on the power play. He also excels at defending in open space. Keane's stock has risen since the Rangers selected him 88th overall this past June. Due to his productive campaign and the fact he is a right-handed shot, Keane stands a good chance of cracking the United States World Junior roster later this month.