Yes Glen, It Is Time For A Change (Again)

Back when Tom Renney got canned at the end of February '09, I posted a list of Glen Sather's track record and in honour of his 10 year anniversary today, I felt it was worth re-posting. Mind you, since then Glen signed Donald Brashear and Ales Kotalik but also added Marian Gaborik, Jody Shelley and Brandon Prust - earning a C from me since I saw it as a season where he broke even - after all, the horrific signings of John Tortorella, Chris Drury and Wade Redden were all prior to July 1st, the date the new season begins (for me at least).

Well, now that Glen Sather has managed to shove the blame for his failings upon someone else yet again, I figured it might be good to look at just what he has done. Sather was officially hired by the Rangers June 1st, 2000. Let's take a look at some of his more memorable works - both good and bad - using Outside The Garden's transaction listings ...

July 1st, 2000 - Signed Vladimir Malakhov for four years for $14 million

June 24th, 2001 - Traded Adam Graves to San Jose for Mikael Samuelsson

August 20th, 2001 - Traded Jan Hlavac, Kim Johnsson, Pavel Brendl and 2003 3rd Round Pick to Philadelphia for Eric Lindros

March 18th, 2002 - Traded Igor Ulanov, Filip Novak, 2002 1st Round Pick, 2002 2nd Round Pick and 2003 4th Round Pick to Florida for Pavel Bure and 2002 2nd Round Pick

March 19th, 2002 - Traded Mike York and 2002 4th Round Pick to Edmonton for Tom Poti and Rem Murray

June 26th, 2002 - Traded Theo Fleury to San Jose for a 2002 6th Round Pick

July 1st, 2002 - Signed Bobby Holik for five years for $45 million

July 2nd, 2002 - Signed Darius Kasparaitus for six years for $25.5 million

December 12th, 2002 - Traded Tomas Kloucek, Rem Murray and Marek Zidlicky to Nashville for Mike Dunham

January 8th, 2003 - Traded 2004 4th Round Pick to Chicago for Boris Mironov

February 10th, 2003 - Traded Samuelsson, Joel Bouchard, Rico Fata, Richard Lintner and cash to Pittsburgh for Alexei Kovalev, Dan Lacouture, Janne Laukkanen and Mike Wilson

March 11th, 2003 - Traded Radek Dvorak and Cory Cross to Edmonton for Anson Carter and Ales Pisa

August 14th, 2003 - Re-signed Tom Poti for two years at $5.9 million

September 3rd, 2003 - Signed Boris Mironov for one year at $1,925,000

January 23rd, 2004 - Traded Anson Carter to Washington for Jaromir Jagr and cash

March 2nd, 2004 - Traded Alexei Kovalev to Montreal for Josef Balej and a 2004 2nd Round Pick

March 3rd, 2004 - Traded Briant Leetch and a Conditional Draft Pick to Toronto for Maxim Kondratiev, Jarkko Immonen, a 2004 1st Round Pick and a 2005 2nd Round Pick

March 3rd, 2004 - Traded Petr Nedved and Jussi Markkanen to Edmonton for Dwight Helminen, Stephen Valiquette and a 2004 2nd Round Pick

March 6th, 2004 - Traded Chris Simon and Conditional 2004 7th Round Draft Pick to Calgary for Jamie McLenna, Blair Betts and Greg Moore

March 8th, 2004 - Traded Matt Barnaby and a 2004 3rd Round Pick to Colorado for Chris McAllister, David Liffiton and a 2004 2nd Round Pick

March 8th, 2004 - Traded Vladimir Makarov to Philadelphia for Rick Kozak and a 2005 2nd Round Draft Pick

March 9th, 2004 - Traded Martin Rucinsky to Vancouver Canucks for R J Umberger and Martin Grenier

March 9th, 2004 - Traded Greg de Vries to Ottawa for Karel Rachunek and Alexandre Giroux

August 10th, 2004 - Signed Michael Nylander for three years for $8.9 million

July 29th, 2005 - Paid out Bobby Holik

August 2nd, 2005 - Signed Marek Malik for three years for $7.5 million

August 2nd, 2005 - Signed Martin Straka for one year for $3 million

October 7th, 2005 - Traded Jozef Balej to Vancouver with conditional pick for Fedor Fedorov

January 8th, 2006 - Traded Maxim Kondratiev for Petr Sykora and 2007 4th round pick

March 9th, 2006 - Traded 2006 3rd Round Pick to Anaheim for Sandis Ozolinsh

July 1st, 2006 - Signed Matt Cullen for four years for $11.2 million

July 3rd, 2006 - Signed Aaron Ward for two years for $5.5 million

July 9th, 2006 - Signed Brendan Shanahan for one year for $4 million

February 5th, 2007 - Traded Jan Marek, Marc-Andre Cliche and Jason Ward for Sean Avery and John Seymour

July 1st, 2007 - Signed Scott Gomez for seven years for $51.5 million

July 1st, 2007 - Signed Chris Drury for five years for $35.25 million

July 17th, 2007 - Traded Matt Cullen to Carolina for Andrew Hutchinson, Joe Barnes and a 2008 3rd Round Pick

February 26th, 2008 - Traded Al Montoya and Marcel Hossa to Phoenix for Fredrik Sjostrom, Josh Gratton and David LeNeveu

February 26th, 2008 - Traded 6th Round pick to St. Louis for Christian Backman

July 1st, 2008 - Signed Aaron Voros for three years for $3 million

July 1st, 2008 - Signed Wade Redden for six years for $39 million

July 2nd, 2008 - Traded Fedor Tyutin and Christian Backman to Columbus for Nikolai Zherdev and Dan Fritsche

Tom Renney came in just prior to the lockout to finish off a terrible season, and then guided the franchise through the "new" NHL and into the playoffs three straight years. If/when John Tortorella fails to bring in a even playoff team this year he will be let off the hook. But no Cup by 2012? Let's hope that Sather is the one to take the fall then ...

Remarkably, Torts got the team to the playoffs (and knocked them out of them himself) in '09 and then failed to make the postseason by a point in '10 and was let off the hook both times. It is the Garden's MO to turn a blind eye to pathetic administration but how could they possibly ignore no playoff revenue?

Well, easily.

Sather starts season number 11 under seemingly the same accountability his coach demanded from his players: none. Looking back at the last decade of epic disasters, I can't imagine what the next 10 years will hold for us. But, that being said, we keep buying tickets for this ride aboard the Hindenburg, despite the fact we've been going down in horrible, burning flames for years so the question is who is the bigger failure - Sather or us?

 "Yes, Glen, It Is Time For A Change (Again): The Evolution of NHL Leadership"

In the ever-evolving landscape of the National Hockey League (NHL), change is a constant. From player rosters to coaching staff to front office executives, the league's dynamics are in a perpetual state of flux. One figure who has witnessed and influenced these changes over the years is Glen Sather. In this article, we will explore the evolving nature of leadership in the NHL, Glen Sather's impact on the league, and address frequently asked questions about the shifting landscape of hockey management.

Glen Sather: A Hockey Icon

Glen Sather, born on September 2, 1943, in High River, Alberta, Canada, has left an indelible mark on the NHL. His career spans multiple decades, during which he played, coached, and managed teams in various capacities. Most notably, Sather's tenure as the President and General Manager of the Edmonton Oilers during the 1980s resulted in a dynasty that secured numerous Stanley Cup championships.

The Evolution of Leadership in the NHL:

Player-Centric Era: In the early days of the NHL, the league was largely player-centric, with little emphasis on management. Team captains often held significant sway, and decisions were made on the ice.

Emergence of Coaching: As the game evolved, coaching began to play a more prominent role. Innovators like Scotty Bowman and Toe Blake brought strategic thinking and tactics to the forefront, influencing the direction of the league.

Front Office Revolution: The role of the general manager and team president gained prominence during the latter half of the 20th century. Visionaries like Glen Sather brought new philosophies to management, emphasizing team building, talent acquisition, and long-term planning.

Analytics and Technology: In the modern era, data analytics and advanced technology have transformed player evaluation, game strategy, and decision-making at all levels of the organization. Leaders who embrace these tools gain a competitive edge.

Diversity and Inclusion: Leadership in the NHL is becoming more diverse and inclusive. Women, people of color, and individuals from varied backgrounds are assuming important roles in both the front office and coaching staff.

Glen Sather's Impact on NHL Leadership:

Glen Sather's influence on NHL leadership is multifaceted:

Innovative Management: Sather's tenure with the Edmonton Oilers showcased his innovative approach to management, which included assembling a team of young, talented players and developing a dynamic style of play.

Strategic Vision: Sather's strategic vision extended beyond the ice. He prioritized player development, created a winning culture, and embraced a long-term outlook, which remains a hallmark of successful franchises today.

Leadership Development: Sather's coaching tree includes prominent figures like Mike Babcock, Joel Quenneville, and Glen Gulutzan, who have gone on to lead successful coaching careers in the NHL.

Adaptability: Sather's adaptability allowed him to transition seamlessly between roles, from player to coach to executive, demonstrating his versatility in the ever-changing NHL landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions About NHL Leadership:

1. How has the role of an NHL general manager evolved over time?

The role of an NHL general manager has evolved from primarily handling player transactions to overseeing the entire hockey operations department, including player development, scouting, and strategic planning.

2. Are there specific qualities that make a successful NHL executive or coach?

Successful NHL executives and coaches often possess qualities such as adaptability, strategic thinking, effective communication, and the ability to build strong relationships with players and staff.

3. How has diversity and inclusion impacted NHL leadership?

Diversity and inclusion have brought new perspectives and talents to NHL leadership. Teams and the league are actively working to create more opportunities for underrepresented groups in hockey.

4. What role does analytics play in NHL leadership today?

Analytics play a significant role in player evaluation, game strategy, and decision-making in the NHL. Teams use data to gain insights into player performance and team dynamics.

5. Can we expect further changes in NHL leadership in the future?

The NHL's leadership landscape will continue to evolve with advancements in technology, changes in player demographics, and shifting priorities in the sport. Expect more diversity, innovation, and adaptability in the years to come.

Glen Sather's impact on NHL leadership is a testament to the ever-changing nature of the league. From the player-centric days of the past to the data-driven, inclusive era of today, the NHL continues to evolve. As new leaders emerge and old traditions make way for modern approaches, one thing remains certain: the NHL's capacity for change and innovation is as strong as ever. The league's leaders, like Glen Sather, are at the forefront of shaping the future of hockey.

29-19-5: No D In Dallas

Let the excuses begin!

Flu is running through the Ranger locker room. The Rangers were without their 'top' goaltender and two of their top six defensemen. The Rangers were up against a really good team. The Rangers were playing in a different time zone. The refs were out to get the Rangers. All of the Sean Avery talk distracted the Rangers.

Wah, wah, waaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhh.

Apologists can cry all they want but the simple fact is what I have been saying all along - the Rangers just are not that good. They are a flawed ship sailing rudderless and hitting every bump in the ocean. The general manager got drunk on money and ego and built a team without a thought towards how they would actually play together. The coach preaches a safe defensive system that doesn't entertain and all too often doesn't work (it certainly didn't tonight). The coach and the captains don't hold anyone accountable for their actions. Virtually the entire team coasts along without giving their maximum effort. The saddest thing is that the parity in the league has allowed the team to get by and be relatively successful throughout the meaningless first half.

That will change, and if there is a surer sign than the 10-2 loss tonight to the Dallas Stars, I don't know what it is. This has to be a wake up call, has to be the turnaround point of the season, has to be the impetus for renovation of some sort. If not, this team will miss the playoffs and the few hundred empty seats every game will turn into a few thousand. All of that energy these guys seemingly are saving up will be used to improve their golf game. That can't be allowed to happen, not in New York, not with the Rangers.

Observations from the debacle in Dallas:

*If Valley was sick like all of the beat reporters said pregame, and Hank was sick, why wouldn't the Rangers call up a healthy Miika Wiikman? Oh yeah, our GM and coach doesn't trust rookies. That being said, Potter acquitted himself pretty well. He certainly played better than Redden and Rozy ... not that that is saying much though.

*All of you guys want to rip on me for my devotion to the fourth line, saying how they such and can never score. If that is the case, just how bad are the other lines that FCB Ole had the best chances?

*But since you guys dog me for never getting on them, Blair Betts was horrid in the faceoff dot, winning six of 18. Seeing as he took a good number of them while shorthanded, conceding possession in your own zone while on the kill is a sure way to lose a hockey game. It doesn't happen often to Betts, but the timing was atrocious.

*Scott Gomez, Markus Naslund and Aaron Voros - could that be the worst first line in the NHL?? A one-dimensional playmaker who doesn't play with his wingers, an over-the-hill sniper who shows up every four, five games, and a shaved ape with cement for hands (and brains).

*Let me get this right, the Mexican't and Chris Drury go on a 2-on-1 break on a second period two man advantage and Drury misses the net entirely. And they then proceed to blow the entire power play without a good shot on net. And Perry Pearn still has a job. If the two idiots with letters on their jerseys score, it would have been a different hockey game. Instead, not only did they miss, but each ended up costing the Rangers a goal (or two). That's 14 million dollars wasted, yet again. Not to mention the turnovers and poor puckhandling by Rozy and Redden. Just how was Sather allowed to give up the four worse contracts in the NHL???

*While I am asking stupid questions, why does Voros get power play time over Colton Orr? And haters don't start on Colt going crazy going after Steve Ott - at least he was showing some pride and doing something for the team. It was insanely stupid, but it was good to see someone acting out. Better than sulking on the bench ...

*It was nice to hear Sam give Joe Whelan and Bobby Lewis credit for the wonderful job they did directing the Graves retirement ceremony. I watched it when I got home that night and indeed, they did a terrific job.

*It was not nice to hear Joe Micheletti. Man is he annoying, obnoxious and useless. If I hear him make another mistake or say "yeah, Sam, you are totally right" rather than providing actual analysis, I am going to scream.

*Anyone else think that all of the compliments that Sam and Joe used on Steve Ott sounded vaguely familiar? Around the net, relentless, hitting everyone, causing chaos ... I woulda sworn that I heard them say that stuff about a certain Sean Avery fellow ...

*While we are talking about Rangers that we desperately miss, Brendan Shanahan got into a fight tonight against heavyweight Eric Boulton. Brashear, Boulton ... heart, character and willingness to do anything for his team. Thanks Glen!

*Dallas really has some kickass in-house music. It is almost entirely hard rock, which helps give an edge to the atmosphere - something hockey should have. Enough of that Kernkraft Chelsea club crap all night long, MSG should not be as vanilla a venue as the team is on the ice.

*Nik Zherdev may be the biggest fraud in the NHL. Z shows just enough skill to keep his job and ensure he gets a paycheque. Nothing less, nothing more. Both of his goals tonight were the result of poor positioning by Marty Turco, not by any kind of scoring acumen. But at the end of the night, the statline shows two more goals, that's it.

*I missed the first six minutes of the game getting home from work, did they explain why the Rangers were wearing their home blue jerseys and the Stars were wearing their barbecue aprons? I don't get it.

*If the Knicks can sit Stephon Marbury, why can't the Rangers bench Redden? Let him go off and tattoo his head, collect his money and stop ruining the team's performance. I'll take a rookie mistake like the puck off of Reitz's skate that went in but I won't accept the lazy, stupid penalty Redden took in the first period for throwing the puck over the boards even though he had the time and space to make a play.

*Did Nigel Dawes or Ryan Callahan play? Couldn't tell.

*Marc Staal certainly did, and he had the worst game of his young career. Much like with the rest of the team, how he bounces back will be the true test of skill/character/heart/potential. We will see on Monday ...

*PHW Three Stars
3-Jere Lehtinen - one goal and two assists.
2-Steve Ott - one goal and two assists.
1-Mike Ribeiro - two goals and two assists.

Scotty Hockey Three Stars
3-James Neal - This kid deserves serious consideration for the Calder. Both of his goals came on nice plays by the kid. As opposed to Ribeiro's, which Valley should have stopped.
2-Matt Niskanen - Another strong youngster, the (hopefully) future American Olympian didn't collect a single hit or blocked shot and yet seemed to be right there to frustrate the Ranger attack, when there was one. And he collected three assists.
1-Ott - As my buddy Pete pointed out, listening to the broadcast this guy was the second coming of Christ.

29-19-5: No D In Dallas - The Rangers' Defensive Struggles

The New York Rangers, one of the Original Six teams in the National Hockey League (NHL), have a storied history filled with iconic moments, legendary players, and a passionate fan base. Over the years, the Rangers have experienced their share of highs and lows, and the 2022-2023 season has been no exception. In this article, we will delve into the Rangers' season, focusing on their defensive struggles, key takeaways, and frequently asked questions regarding the team's performance.

Defensive Woes

The Rangers' 2022-2023 season has been marked by inconsistent defensive play, which has had a significant impact on their performance. Here are some key points that highlight the defensive challenges faced by the team:

**1. Goaltending Struggles: A team's defensive performance often starts with its goaltender, and the Rangers have faced some ups and downs in this department. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin has been a standout player, but he has also had to face an unusually high number of shots and scoring chances due to defensive lapses.

**2. Injuries to Key Defensemen: Injuries are a part of any NHL season, but the Rangers have had their fair share of setbacks on the blue line. Losing key defensemen to injuries disrupts defensive pairings and can lead to defensive breakdowns.

**3. Penalty Kill Issues: The Rangers' penalty kill, a critical component of defensive play, has struggled at times during the season. Successful penalty killing is essential to prevent opponents from capitalizing on power-play opportunities.

**4. Defensive Zone Coverage: Defensive zone coverage, including clearing rebounds and limiting second-chance opportunities, has been inconsistent. The Rangers have often found themselves pinned in their own zone, leading to increased scoring chances for opponents.

**5. High-Scoring Games: The Rangers have been involved in several high-scoring games, indicating that they have had difficulty shutting down opposing offenses. While they have shown offensive firepower, the inability to keep the puck out of their own net has been a recurring issue.

Key Takeaways

Despite the defensive challenges faced by the Rangers this season, there are several positive aspects to consider:

**1. Offensive Prowess: The Rangers have one of the most dynamic and exciting offenses in the NHL. Their ability to score goals and generate scoring chances has kept them competitive in many games.

**2. Emerging Stars: Young players like Alexis Lafrenière and Kaapo Kakko have shown tremendous growth and promise. Their development bodes well for the team's future.

**3. Competitive Spirit: The Rangers have displayed a never-give-up attitude and have staged comebacks in numerous games. This resilience is a testament to their character.

**4. Playoff Aspirations: Despite their defensive struggles, the Rangers remain in the playoff hunt. With improvements in their defensive play, they have the potential to make a postseason run.

**5. Coaching Adjustments: Head coach Gerard Gallant and his coaching staff have the experience and knowledge to address defensive issues. Making adjustments and improvements is part of the coaching process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Rangers' historical defensive performance like?

The Rangers have a storied history that includes periods of strong defensive play. They have won multiple Stanley Cups and have had legendary defensemen like Brian Leetch. Defensive excellence has been a hallmark of the franchise.

2. How important is defense in the NHL?

Defense is crucial in the NHL, as it plays a significant role in preventing goals and protecting leads. Teams with strong defensive play are more likely to succeed in the playoffs.

3. Can the Rangers turn their season around defensively?

Yes, the Rangers have the potential to improve their defensive play. This could involve adjustments in defensive strategies, roster changes, and better communication on the ice.

4. Who are the key defensive players for the Rangers?

Key defensive players for the Rangers include players like Adam Fox, Jacob Trouba, and Ryan Lindgren. These players are expected to anchor the blue line and contribute to defensive stability.

5. What are the Rangers' playoff prospects this season?

The Rangers are in a competitive playoff race, and their prospects depend on their ability to address defensive issues and maintain their offensive production. If they can shore up their defense, they have a good chance of making a postseason run.

The 2022-2023 season has been a rollercoaster ride for the New York Rangers, with defensive struggles serving as a significant storyline. However, the team's offensive firepower, emerging young stars, and competitive spirit provide hope for a brighter future. With improvements in their defensive play, the Rangers can continue their pursuit of playoff success and add to their storied history.

Renney = FAIL

According to Sam Weinman, Tom Renney has scratched Lauri Korpikoski for tonight's game and is dressing Aaron Voros in his place.

“Getting Voros back in, getting his game back into the lineup, and his presence at the net to help our power play,” Renney said when explaining his rationale.

To help the power play? The power play that Voros was incapable of helping prior to his benching? The power play that Voros scored one goal on in his last 33 games?

Renney went on to acknowledge that Voros, who has been a scratch the past two games in part because of a drop-off in his fitness level, has worked his way back into shape; and that the move tonight was an effort to reward that.

So Renney will reward players who work out off the ice but he won't punish the ones who don't work on it ...

 Examining Tom Renney's Tenure with the New York Rangers: Successes and Failures

Coaching in the NHL is a demanding and challenging profession. Over the years, the New York Rangers have seen various coaches come and go, each with their own unique impact on the team's performance. In this article, we'll take a closer look at Tom Renney's tenure as the head coach of the Rangers, discussing both the successes and failures during his time in New York.

I. The Tom Renney Era Begins

Hiring Tom Renney: Tom Renney was named the head coach of the New York Rangers in 2004, taking over a team that had struggled in the previous seasons.

Steadying the Ship: Renney's early years with the Rangers were marked by stability and a focus on defensive play. He helped the team become more competitive and disciplined.

II. Successes Under Tom Renney

2005-2006 Season: In his first full season as head coach, Renney guided the Rangers to the playoffs after a seven-year absence. The team showed significant improvement in their defensive play.

Development of Young Talent: Renney played a key role in the development of young players like Henrik Lundqvist and Ryan Callahan, who would become cornerstones of the franchise.

Playoff Appearances: Under Renney, the Rangers made the playoffs three consecutive years from 2005 to 2008, including a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2008.

III. Failures and Criticisms

Offensive Struggles: One of the criticisms of Renney's coaching was the team's often anemic offense. The Rangers struggled to score goals consistently during his tenure.

Lack of Stanley Cup Success: Despite making the playoffs, Renney's Rangers were unable to capture the Stanley Cup, falling short of the ultimate goal.

Inconsistent Play: The team's play could be inconsistent under Renney, with periods of strong defensive play followed by offensive droughts.

IV. The Torts Era

John Tortorella's Arrival: Tom Renney was replaced by John Tortorella during the 2008-2009 season, signaling the end of his tenure as head coach.

Tortorella's Different Approach: Tortorella brought a more aggressive and offensive style of play to the Rangers, which had its own set of challenges and successes.

V. Renney's Legacy

Contributions to Development: Tom Renney's time with the Rangers played a vital role in the development of key players and the overall culture of the team.

Mixed Legacy: Renney's legacy is a mix of successes and criticisms, reflecting the complexities of coaching in the NHL.

FAQs about Tom Renney's Time with the Rangers

Q1: Did Tom Renney win a Stanley Cup with the Rangers?

A1: No, Tom Renney did not win a Stanley Cup with the Rangers. Despite making the playoffs during his tenure, the team did not capture the championship.

Q2: Who succeeded Tom Renney as the Rangers' head coach?

A2: John Tortorella succeeded Tom Renney as the head coach of the New York Rangers during the 2008-2009 season.

Q3: What impact did Tom Renney have on the development of Rangers players?

A3: Tom Renney played a significant role in the development of young talent like Henrik Lundqvist and Ryan Callahan, who went on to become key players for the Rangers.

Tom Renney's tenure as the head coach of the New York Rangers was marked by both successes and criticisms. While he brought stability and defensive discipline to the team, the Rangers fell short of winning the Stanley Cup during his time. His legacy is a testament to the challenges and complexities of coaching in the NHL, where success is measured not only in championships but also in the development of players and the growth of the team's culture.