Rangers GM Releases Statement to Fans Amid Disappointing Season

The Rangers, who are in the midst of a stretch that has seen them lose six games in a row and allow more than six goals per game, are floundering , to say the least. This all comes after the team won the President’s Trophy just two seasons ago, but then failed to make the playoffs the following year, which resulted in the ouster of head coach Peter Laviolette and the hiring of Mike Sullivan. Still, it hasn’t been good enough — something Drury is aware of all too well.

Where Do the Rangers Go From Here?

Given New York’s position in the standings, an attempt at a playoff run this season is probably futile. As such, Drury is pivoting toward what he calls a retool. While that might be welcome news for Rangers fans — though still disappointing because it means punting on this season — Drury did note that it also means saying goodbye to some beloved players who have poured their heart and soul into the franchise.

“With our position in the standings and injuries to key players this season, we must be honest and realistic about our situation,” Drury said. “We are not going to stand pat — a shift will give us the ability to be smart and opportunistic as we retool the team. This will not be a rebuild. This will be a retool built around our core players and prospects. We will target players that bring tenacity, skill, speed and a winning pedigree, with a focus on obtaining young players, draft picks and cap space to allow us flexibility moving forward. That may mean saying goodbye to players who have brought us and our fans great moments over the years. These players represented the Rangers with pride and class and will always be a part of our family.”

Drury didn’t mention specific players who might be moved, but the point still stands: the Rangers are moving on from their current era, hoping that a new one brings prosperity in the form of the franchise’s first Stanley Cup since 1994.

“As we start on this new strategic plan, we will continue to play with pride and passion for our fans,” Drury concluded. “We appreciate your unwavering support for the Rangers more than we can describe and thank you for all that you do for our organization. You will begin to see some of our plans come to light in the coming weeks and months. LGR.”