New York Rangers officially name Gerard Gallant as head coach

The "Spuddy" era is officially underway in the Big Apple.

The New York Rangers officially named Gerard Gallant as their 36th head coach earlier today. According to reports, Gallant signed a four-year contract worth $3.5 million annually. 

Gallant officially replaces David Quinn, who was let go by the Rangers at the end of the 2020-21 regular season.

"I would like to welcome Gerard to the New York Rangers,” said team owner James Dolan. “Gerard’s proven track record has made him one of the league’s most sought-after coaches, and we are fortunate to have him as part of the team. I have no doubt that he will play a critical role in helping us take the next steps to building a championship-caliber team.”

“We are excited to announce that Gerard will be the next Head Coach of the New York Rangers,” Rangers president and GM Chris Drury said. “His vast experience and success behind the bench at several levels make him the ideal choice to lead our team on the ice.”

Gallant, 57, who just coached Team Canada to gold at the IIHF World Championship, helped lead the expansion Vegas Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup Finals in their inaugural season of 2017-18, and followed that up with another strong season and playoff appearance in 2018-19. For his efforts in Vegas in their first year, he was awarded the Jack Adams Trophy as the top coach in the NHL. However, team management decided to show him the door last season, and he was replaced by former San Jose Sharks bench boss Peter DeBoer.

Gallant’s coaching record also includes leading the Florida Panthers to a playoff spot in 2015-16, as well as coaching the Columbus Blue Jackets and serving as an assistant with the New York Islanders. In addition to his recent gold at the IIHF, he's enjoyed previous international success, as he helped Canada earn gold while serving as an assistant coach at the 2007 IIHF World Championship and a silver medal as an assistant coach at the 2017 IIHF World Championship.