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| | Monday, April 10 MSG boss says he'll meet with players | |||||
| WASHINGTON -- Madison Square Garden president Dave Checketts talked to the New York Times on Monday night about the process of hiring a new coach and general manager for the New York Rangers.
Checketts told the Times he would like to "have something done by the draft," which is June 24-25 in Calgary. He said he wouldn't limit himself to that time frame, however.
Checketts told the Times he would hold meetings with players before hiring the new GM.
"I'll attend as many (meetings) as I can," said Checketts, adding that Don Maloney, the Rangers' assistant general manager, will sit in on each meeting.
Checketts said he will meet one-on-one with only captain Brian Leetch. At the time of the firings of former GM Neil Smith and coach John Muckler, Checketts said the team lacked leadership.
"At this point, I can't worry about anybody's feelings," Checketts said. "When I said leadership, I meant it collectively. I have great respect for Brian in his role."
Player meetings, Checketts said, will be "open discussions about what happened and what to do about it. I plan to learn a lot."
Checketts reiterated that the new general manager will pick the coach, although Checketts said he will sign off on the choice after interviewing him.
The Times reported that candidates for Smith's old job include Mike Keenan, the former Rangers coach. Colin Campbell, who succeeded Keenan as Rangers coach, will most likely be given serious consideration as well
Other candidates could include Devils president Lou Lamiorello, Detroit Red Wings coach Scotty Bowman, Edmonton Oilers president Glen Sather and Washington Capitals general manager George McPhee, a former Ranger.
Maloney, who was the Islanders' general manager from 1992-95, will also most likely be a candidate. Checketts once again had nothing but praise for Maloney, who presumably will head the Rangers' efforts in not only the entry draft but the expansion draft as well.
According to the Times, Checketts is also expected to consult longtime Rangers television analyst John Davidson for advice on the search. Davidson said Monday he would not campaign for a front office job. | ALSO SEE Sacco nets pair as Caps add to Rangers' woes Rangers send Quintal home for 'detrimental' conduct On verge of missing playoffs, Rangers fire GM, coach  | |||||
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