New York Rangers
Team-Only Meeting Reveals Unexpected Source of Rangers’ Anger
The New York Rangers are frustrated, but according to one report, the players are directing their anger at the GM, not the coach.
According to Steve Dangel of SDPN, the issues plaguing the New York Rangers are reportedly unrelated to head coach Peter Laviolette. Instead, they center around general manager Chris Drury and the growing dissatisfaction players have with how he handles the organization. The situation has led to speculation that the Rangers players want the GM removed from his position.
"It's so rare that you hear a team collectively having a problem with management."
— sdpn (@sdpnsports) December 17, 2024
Sounds like things aren't going great between Rangers players and GM Chris Drury. 👀#SDP #NYR pic.twitter.com/8PeLcfjIcP
Rangers’ Internal Issues
The SDPN podcast, hosted by Steve Dangle—better known for his opinionated commentary than for breaking news—revealed that the players’ frustrations appear to be directed entirely at Drury. Dangle stated, “As far as I can tell, their relationship with Laviolette is fine,” dismissing any tension between the team and their head coach. This revelation follows the team’s recent players-only meeting, where the group reportedly identified Drury as the source of their frustrations.
Over the last few weeks, Drury has made several questionable decisions that have impacted the Rangers’ performance on the ice. Dangle further emphasized, “Their main gripe was Chris Drury. It’s so rare that you hear a team collectively having a problem with management.”
In fact, Dangle went so far as to say that a former player who was well respected but made questionable decisions as the GM has lost the room. The Jacob Trouba comments on his way out the door when he was traded should have been the first indicator that things weren’t in a good place. Trouba said it was a “right of passage” to be fired by MSG. Many believe Trouba’s situation could have and should have been handled much more professionally. “That wasn’t one player being an entitled brat. I think that was a guy speaking for the room,” Dangle said.
The reason the Rangers are so upset is because they want to stay Rangers, but they either want Drury to change his ways or be gone.
What Happens Next with the Rangers?
If these reports are accurate and ownership learns of the players’ dissatisfaction, it could spell the end of Drury’s tenure as GM. A change in leadership could be on the horizon, especially if the Rangers’ recent struggles and organizational discord continue to weigh on their performance.
However, with the holiday roster freeze set to take effect in the next 48 hours, the timing could complicate matters. If Drury were to be dismissed, the Rangers would need to name an interim GM, which could further disrupt any potential moves ahead of the freeze.
In a wild rumor, Paul Bissonette of the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast suggested former Rangers player Sean Avery was on his way to meet with the organization. It’s not clear why.
Are we witnessing the final chapter of Drury’s time as GM? Or will ownership stand by him despite the growing rift with the team? One thing is certain: the next few weeks will be crucial for the future direction of the New York Rangers.
Next: Three Players to Watch Ahead of the NHL Trade Roster Freeze
