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NHL insider speculates "animosity" among NY Rangers players as Chris Drury faces tough choices with roster changes
The New York Rangers are experiencing significant turmoil this season as their playoff hopes fade. According to NHL insider Dave Pagnotta, there's growing "animosity" among players in the Rangers' locker room.
Pagnotta believes the trade of captain Jacob Trouba was partially motivated by friction within the team. Despite a talented roster, the Rangers have dropped five of their last six games and hold a disappointing 16-17-1 record.
In assessing the Rangers' struggles, Pagnotta pointed to simmering tensions between the players.
"There still seems to be a little bit of animosity between some of the current players," Pagnotta said on TSN Radio.
"Now that, coupled with the frustration of going through a bad swing and a bit of a free-for-all free fall, excuse me, those frustrations start to boil over, and things get a little bit more hectic in that room."
Pagnotta reported that general manager Chris Drury recognizes the need for change. Beyond trading Trouba and Kaapo Kakko, Drury has explored moving other players.
“So you’re throwing blame, you’re taking blame, you’re pointing fingers, you’re ignoring messages, you’re this, that, and the other they’ve gotten in their heads, and it’s played a big factor as to why this team isn’t where it necessarily should be."
While a full rebuild is unlikely, Drury seems intent on shaking up the roster to address offensive deficiencies and locker room rifts.
For New York to salvage its season and contend for the playoffs, Drury faces tough choices.
Ex-Rangers froward Sean Avery recommends coaching change
Former Rangers forward Sean Avery believes it's time for New York to fire coach Peter Laviolette. With the team struggling this season after making it to the Eastern Conference Finals last year, Avery feels a coaching change is necessary to turn things around.
"I'd fire him today," Avery said (as per Hockey News). "In a big market like that, Eastern Conference Finals last year were that close. It starts. Unfortunately, that's part of it. Yeah, the coach goes first."
While admitting that firing the coach is the easy first step, Avery expressed concern over who would replace Laviolette if he's indeed let go.
Laviolette is in his second season of a three-year contract after helping New York win the Presidents' Trophy last season.
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