A Fresh Look at the Rangers’ Potential Coaching Options
With Peter Laviolette out after just one season behind the bench, the New York Rangers are once again in search of a new head coach. After a Presidents’ Trophy-winning campaign followed by a disappointing failure to make the playoffs, the franchise is hoping to reset ahead of its milestone 100th NHL season in 2025-26. This marks our second look at the possible candidates—if you missed the first, you can catch up here.
Jay Leach – Assistant Coach, Boston Bruins
Leach, 45, may not have NHL head coaching experience, but he’s no stranger to leadership roles, having served as a head coach in the AHL. If some of the Rangers’ top-tier options fall through, Leach could be a solid fallback. A former NHL defenseman, he’s played for several teams including Boston, Tampa Bay, San Jose, and New Jersey. He also has a bit of history with the Rangers, having interviewed for the head coach role previously—a sign that he’s at least on the team’s radar. While hiring someone without top-level experience carries some risk, the prior interest suggests he’s a serious contender.
Michael Peca – Assistant Coach, New York Rangers
Could the 51-year-old Peca get his big break in New York? He’s been working under Laviolette for a few years now, including before they both joined the Rangers. Promoting from within might seem like a long shot, but it could also be the shake-up this team needs. Even if he doesn’t land the top job, Peca could be a valuable assistant to whoever does. And while it might raise a few eyebrows to see a former Islander potentially coaching the Rangers, the irony would certainly add intrigue.
Mike Sullivan – Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins
Sullivan remains under contract in Pittsburgh for two more years, but with the team aging and underperforming, change could be in the air. Rangers GM Chris Drury is reportedly a big fan, placing the 57-year-old coach high on his wish list. Poaching a proven coach from a division rival like the Penguins would be a bold move—and one that might pay off in a big way.
Rick Tocchet – Head Coach, Vancouver Canucks
Tocchet’s future in Vancouver is uncertain after the team missed the playoffs again. At 61, he’s experienced but potentially on the hot seat if the Canucks stumble early next season. If things go south, he could become available midseason—but that’s a gamble the Rangers might not want to take. A key factor here could be his relationship with J.T. Miller—if that dynamic stays positive, Tocchet may remain in Vancouver.
Jay Woodcroft – Former Head Coach, Edmonton Oilers
A bit of a sleeper pick, Woodcroft could emerge as a strong option if the Rangers strike out on others. Though his time in Edmonton ended prematurely, the Oilers’ performance since then has sparked debate about whether letting him go was a mistake. Woodcroft’s resume includes playoff success and a recent Stanley Cup Final appearance, making him a compelling candidate despite flying somewhat under the radar.