What Is Adam Sykora's Biggest Motivation After Rangers Call-Up?

Adam Sykora is using his taste of NHL action as fuel heading into the 2026-27 season. The 2022 second-round pick made his NHL debut on March 25 during the tail end of last season and played in every remaining game for the Rangers down the stretch.

In the process, he was able to score three goals and play with an edge that stood out despite his 5-foot-11 frame. Speaking to reporters as the Rangers opened rookie camp Friday, Sykora explained what that stretch meant to him and how it's shaping his offseason approach.

Sykora Details What He Took From His NHL Stint

The 22-year-old forward said the experience left a lasting impression that's now driving his preparation. "I feel like the biggest part was motivation," Sykora said. "What I felt the last two weeks at the end of the season was something unbelievable, indescribable."

He added that staying disciplined and pushing himself daily has been his mindset since, to earn a permanent NHL spot sooner rather than later. Sykora also pointed to specific feedback from coaches about his defensive-zone play and forechecking angles as areas he's focused on improving over the offseason.

Path Back To The NHL Won't Be Easy

Cracking the Rangers' lineup out of training camp is no guarantee. New York added scoring winger Pavel Dorofeyev via trade and signed veterans Eeli Tolvanen and Oliver Bjorkstrand in free agency, while Will Cuylle, Tye Kartye, Taylor Raddysh, and Jaroslav Chmelar remain in the mix on the wings. 

Sykora also remains waivers exempt, which makes it easier for the Rangers to option him to the minors compared to non-exempt players like Matt Rempe or Juuso Parssinen. Still, Sykora's game fits the identity coach Mike Sullivan values most, built around speed, forechecking, and reliable two-way play. 

A shortened four-game preseason slate, down from six a year ago, gives him fewer chances to make his case, but Sykora said he's embracing the opportunity to play two extra rookie camp games this weekend against Philadelphia Flyers prospects.

Beyond making the varsity roster, Sykora is also looking to impress an entirely new Hartford Wolf Pack coaching staff led by Jay Leach, who previously worked under Sullivan in Pittsburgh's system. The Rangers overhauled their AHL bench after Hartford finished last in the league with 60 points in 2025-26.

Sykora enters camp with 201 AHL games to his name, all with Hartford, and coming off a season in which he tied for third on the team with 29 points, including a career-high 12 goals. Whether his 2026-27 season starts in New York or Hartford, Sykora made clear his focus is on the team over individual results as he looks to carry his late-season momentum forward.