The decision has been made. After division rival Columbus Blue Jackets found their coach, the New York Rangers also have. The New York Rangers head coach is Peter Laviolette. He is the new bench boss of this club and will assemble his own staff.
The 37th Head Coach in #NYR history. pic.twitter.com/YInwtE8M6D
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) June 13, 2023
New York Rangers Have New Coach In Place
It was only a matter of time before the club made its decision. After deciding to part ways with Gerard Gallant, a new head coach was in need. The time has finally come, and the team has a new head coach in place. New York has a bright future ahead, with the core group locked up for the foreseeable future. Laviolette will be tasked with getting this team to achieve the ultimate goal of winning while the roster is entering its best years. New York is coming off two 100+ point seasons and one Eastern Conference final appearance. Ownership and Drury want to build on this success.
Why This Coach Fits
This New York Rangers head coach hire makes sense. The message was not being sent under Gallant after a disappointing first-round exit. Winning now is a must while developing the younger guys on this roster. However, this is a coach with plenty if experience entering the room. Laviolette has coached for the New York Islanders, Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers, Nashville Predators, and Washington Capitals in the past. In addition, he captured the Stanley Cup in 2006 and made another appearance in 2010 and 2017. His track record is worthy (752-503-150) and he has a winning pedigree attached to him. There is a tall task ahead for this coach. This hire is crucial as he will aim to get the most out of this group. This core group is now slouch with Mika Zibanejad, Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox, and Igor Shesterkin in place. Not to mention the complimentary pieces behind them.
Main Photo: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports
