The 2024-25 NHL season was a rough one for the New York Rangers. After finishing first overall just last year, the team shockingly missed the playoffs this season. But in a surprising move, Rangers owner James Dolan announced on Wednesday that General Manager (GM) Chris Drury has received a multi-year contract extension.
This news came as a surprise to many fans, but Dolan clearly still believes in Drury’s long-term vision for the team.
Owner’s Trust in Drury Remains Strong
James Dolan made his support for Drury clear in a statement:
“I am pleased that Chris will continue to lead the Rangers hockey operations… While we are all disappointed in what transpired this past season, I am confident in his ability to guide this organization to success.”
Dolan praised Drury’s passion, hard work, and drive for excellence, even though the results this season fell short.
Not All Fans Are Happy With the Decision
Some Rangers fans don’t agree with the extension, especially after such a disappointing season. But unlike players’ salaries, management contracts don’t count against the salary cap. This gives owners like Dolan the freedom to spend as much as they want on hiring or retaining GMs and coaches.
The extension also gives Drury the confidence to keep building the team without worrying about his job security—at least for now.
Drury’s Job Still Isn’t 100% Safe
Just because Drury has a new contract doesn’t mean he’s guaranteed to stay for the full term. If the Rangers continue to underperform and miss the playoffs again next year, Dolan could still decide to fire him. But the Rangers are a team with deep pockets, and they can afford to make changes if needed.
What This Extension Really Means
The contract extension allows Drury to move forward with his plans, including hiring a new head coach after the recent firing of Peter Laviolette. Any new players joining the team will also know that Drury is the long-term leader, which adds stability to the organization.
Part of this move is also about sending a message—it shows that Dolan still believes in Drury’s leadership and is giving him time to finish what he started.
Drury’s Track Record Isn’t All Bad
Drury has been the GM since May 2021. During his four seasons in charge, the Rangers won 193 games—more than in any other four-year period in the team’s history. Under his leadership, they also reached the Eastern Conference Final twice in the last three seasons, something not many teams can claim.
Yes, there were some questionable choices this past season, like the failed attempt to trade captain Jacob Trouba or the delay in changing coaches. But Drury also made smart moves, like re-signing top goaltender Igor Shesterkin and bringing in star forward J.T. Miller.
Chris Drury may have had a tough season, but his work over the past few years hasn’t gone unnoticed. With a new contract in hand, he now has the chance to correct the team’s course and lead the Rangers back to playoff success. However, the pressure is greater than ever. This extension gives him more time, but not unlimited time. The expectations are high, and next season will be a critical test for both Drury and the Rangers.
