Rangers Prospect Finds Inspiration in Uncle Sergei Gonchar: ‘He Sees Potential in Me’…see more…
For most NHL prospects, development camps are pressure-packed weeks — a critical step in proving to management that they belong in the big leagues. But for one New York Rangers prospect, there’s a secret weapon helping him navigate the expectations: a legendary NHL defenseman — and family member — Sergei Gonchar.
The 19-year-old defenseman, Ivan Goncharov, is turning heads at the Rangers’ development camp this summer. While his name might not have carried much buzz when he was selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NHL Draft, his play since then — combined with his strong hockey pedigree — has made him a name worth watching in the Rangers’ pipeline.
“I talk to my uncle a lot,” Goncharov said following a recent scrimmage at the team’s training facility in Tarrytown, New York. “He’s always giving me tips, helping me read the game better, and making sure I stay confident. He tells me he sees potential in me — and hearing that from someone like him means everything.”
A Hall-of-Fame Mentor
Sergei Gonchar, a Stanley Cup champion with the Pittsburgh Penguins and one of the most skilled Russian defensemen in NHL history, played over 1,300 NHL games and tallied 811 career points. Known for his poise, vision, and offensive upside, Gonchar has served as a development coach and mentor to young players, including roles with the Penguins and the Russian national team.
For his nephew Ivan, that wisdom has become a personal compass.
“He’s not easy on me,” Goncharov said, smiling. “He doesn’t sugarcoat anything. If I mess up, he lets me know. But he also knows how to keep me calm, focused, and thinking long-term. I’m lucky to have that kind of support.”
Goncharov added that his uncle often breaks down film with him and encourages him to approach the game with the same intelligence and patience that made Sergei a perennial top-pairing defenseman in his prime.
Gaining Attention in New York
While Goncharov was initially viewed as a longer-term project when drafted, Rangers development staff have noted considerable growth over the past year. His play in the MHL and brief stint with SKA St. Petersburg’s KHL affiliate caught scouts’ attention thanks to his puck movement, mobility, and improved defensive zone reads.
“Ivan’s skating has really taken a leap,” said Rangers director of player development Jed Ortmeyer. “He’s becoming more confident with the puck and reading the play at a higher pace. You can tell he’s been working hard — and that he has someone great in his corner.”
Goncharov’s poise on the breakout and willingness to jump into the rush has drawn comparisons to a younger version of his uncle. While it’s too early to say whether he’ll reach that kind of NHL ceiling, his trajectory is trending upward.
“He plays with his head up, makes the smart pass, and doesn’t panic under pressure,” said fellow prospect Drew Fortescue, a 2023 Rangers draft pick. “You can tell he’s learning from someone who’s been there.”
The Weight — and Gift — of a Legacy
Goncharov admits that bearing the Gonchar name in the hockey world can be a double-edged sword.
“There are expectations, for sure,” he said. “People hear the name and assume I should already be great. But I’m not trying to be Sergei Gonchar. I’m just trying to be the best version of myself — and learn as much as I can from him along the way.”
He added that his uncle has always emphasized that the NHL journey is a marathon, not a sprint.
“He always says, ‘Don’t chase hype. Chase consistency,’” Goncharov shared. “That’s what I’m working on — being steady, reliable, and ready when my chance comes.”
Eyes on the Future
While a spot in the NHL may still be a few seasons away, the Rangers are hopeful that Goncharov can continue his development either with the Hartford Wolf Pack in the AHL or back in Europe, depending on how his preseason evaluation unfolds. His performance at development camp could earn him an invitation to training camp in September, where he’ll get a closer look at the NHL pace and physicality.
For now, the focus remains on refining his skill set — with one of the game’s best ever continuing to guide him from behind the scenes.
“Every kid wants someone to believe in them,” Goncharov said. “When that someone is a Hall of Famer, it pushes you even harder.”
As the Rangers continue to build out their next generation of blue line talent, Ivan Goncharov may be the quiet sleeper who, thanks to a famous uncle and a relentless work ethic, surprises everyone — except those who have been watching him closely.
“Don’t count him out,” Ortmeyer said. “There’s something there. And he’s only getting better.”
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Related Tags: Rangers prospects, Ivan Goncharov, Sergei Gonchar, NHL development camp, Rangers pipeline, NHL family legacy
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