BREAKING NEWS: Rangers Announce Coaching Changes with major announcement concerning…

In a dramatic shake-up just weeks after the end of their playoff run, the New York Rangers have announced sweeping coaching changes that could mark a turning point in the franchise’s future.

In a press conference held this morning at Madison Square Garden, Rangers President and General Manager Chris Drury confirmed that head coach Gerard Gallant has been relieved of his duties, along with associate coach Gord Murphy and power play specialist Mike Kelly. The announcement came amid rising pressure from fans and analysts following another early postseason exit.

But the biggest shock of the morning came as Drury revealed the team’s new head coach: hockey legend Mark Messier.

“Yes, it’s real,” Drury said with a grin. “Mark is back — not just in the building, but behind the bench.”

Messier, a six-time Stanley Cup champion and the iconic captain who helped end the Rangers’ 54-year championship drought in 1994, has long been rumored to be interested in coaching, but this is his first official role behind the bench.

“I’ve waited a long time for this moment,” said Messier, donning a Rangers tie and a trademark stare. “This organization means everything to me. It’s time to bring a new identity, built on pride, toughness, and a relentless pursuit of the Cup.”

The move is already sending shockwaves through the NHL. Critics question Messier’s lack of coaching experience, while supporters argue that his leadership, legacy, and hockey IQ make him the ideal figure to reignite the team’s championship aspirations.

Also joining the bench is former Rangers defenseman Dan Girardi as assistant coach, with rumors swirling that Henrik Lundqvist may be tapped for a player development role.

Fans packed the plaza outside the Garden during the announcement, chanting “MESS-IER! MESS-IER!” and waving signs that read “The Messiah Returns.”

Whether this bold new era will bring hardware back to New York remains to be seen, but one thing is clear — the Rangers are going all-in.

More updates to follow.

New York Rangers President and General Manager Chris Drury announced today that he has relieved head coach Peter Laviolette and associate head coach Phil Housley of their duties.

“Today I informed Peter Laviolette and Phil Housley that we’re making a coaching change,” said Drury. “I want to thank them both and wish them and their families all the best going forward. Peter is first class all the way, both professionally and personally, and I am truly grateful for his passion and dedication to the Rangers in his time as head coach.

After finishing with the best regular season record in the NHL a year ago and making a trip to the Eastern Conference Final, we came into this season with high expectations for ourselves. Quite simply, we failed to meet those expectations. We must all do better – myself included. As we head into next season and beyond, I felt that a change was necessary in order to give us the best chance to achieve our goals as an organization. Our search for a new head coach will begin immediately.”