Rangers Eye New Head Coach Amid NHL Coaching Shuffle: Tocchet, Campbell Among Top Candidates

April 26, 2025
Rangers Eye New Head Coach Amid NHL Coaching Shuffle: Tocchet, Campbell Among Top Candidates
  • Drury's decisions will be crucial as the organization seeks stability and immediate success, especially after recent player acquisitions like Kaapo Kakko.

  • Jay Leach, known for his success in the AHL and ability to develop young talent, is another candidate being considered for a head coaching role.

  • As the Rangers navigate these changes, the leadership of Drury will be pivotal in shaping the team's direction and culture moving forward.

  • The Rangers' future looks promising with young talents and key players like Igor Shesterkin and Adam Fox under contract, indicating potential for recovery.

  • The New York Rangers have shown confidence in General Manager Chris Drury by extending his contract, despite a disappointing season that saw the team miss the playoffs.

  • Since taking over in 2021, Drury has made significant changes, including firing four coaches, with Peter Laviolette being dismissed just a year after leading the team to a Presidents' Trophy.

  • Drury, a former NHL player with an impressive career, played 892 games and scored 255 goals, representing teams such as the Colorado Avalanche and the Rangers.

  • Additionally, the team holds a top-13 protected pick in the upcoming NHL draft, a result of the J.T. Miller trade, which could aid in rebuilding efforts.

  • Under pressure to find the right coach, Drury is considering Rick Tocchet, who has a strong rapport with key players and a coaching style that aligns with the team's vision.

  • Tocchet's recent experience as head coach of the Vancouver Canucks, where he led the team to a strong season, makes him a compelling candidate for the Rangers.

  • The Rangers are also expected to make significant roster changes, with several underperforming players, including Chris Kreider, likely to be on their way out.

  • Jessica Campbell, the first woman to serve as a full-time NHL assistant coach, is also in the mix for a head coaching position, reflecting the evolving landscape of coaching in the league.

Summary based on 87 sources


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Sources

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Bleacher Report • Apr 27, 2025

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