NY Rangers Part Ways With Head Coach Gerard Gallant

Gerard Gallant with Canada in 2021
Gerard Gallant with Canada in 2021. Photo by Jari Pestelacci/SPP-JP/Shutterstock (12033474ae)

The New York Rangers announced they had parted ways with head coach Gerard Gallant. The move comes after first-round elimination from the Stanley Cup playoffs.

The Rangers described the decision as “mutual.” Gallant leaves after two seasons in New York, during which he compiled a 99-46-19 record. He had a contract that ran through the 2024-25 season.

Gallant was hired by the Rangers ahead of the 2021-22 NHL season and led the team to second place in the Metropolitan Division and Conference Finals appearance. The Rangers had a solid 2022-23 campaign as well, winning 47 games, but fell short of their goals in the postseason. 

“I want to first thank Gerard for his work and commitment to the Rangers during his time as head coach,” Rangers general manager Chris Drury said in a statement. “After my evaluation of the season and discussions with Gerard, we mutually came to the conclusion that a change would be beneficial for both parties. I wish him and his family all the best in the future. Our search for a new head coach will begin right away.”

Drury reportedly made a decision after receiving feedback from the players that the change would be welcomed. The Rangers are now considering several candidates as Gallant’s replacement, with the ex-Chicago Blackhawks head coach Joel Quenneville being considered the favorite for the job.