Bantering Points: 4/20/25

Here are today's news and links:

From Blueshirt Banter:

Eric Kohn reports that the Rangers relieved Peter Laviolette and Phil Housley of their coaching duties, and the team's search for its next head coach will begin immediately (BSB)

Roberto Solis-Byxbee takes a look at former Blueshirts still active with their current teams in the Stanley Cup Playoffs (BSB)

Rangers News:

Mollie Walker heard from J.T. Miller about his expectations for his first full season back on Broadway after arriving midway through New York's disappointing performance in 2024-25 (NY Post)

Walker also relayed word from Chris Drury following Laviolette's firing concerning potential options to succeed Laviolette behind the bench (NY Post)

Colin Stephenson poses five questions the Blueshirts will need to answer as they tackle their longest off-season since 2021 (Newsday)

Vincent Mercogliano lists eight candidates to keep an eye on as New York's next head coach (LoHud)

Remy Mastey argues that for all of the failings the Rangers endured this season, it's a bit of a mystery why Chris Drury's job security remains in tact (The Hockey News)

Stan Fischler offers his take on the state of the Blueshirts as they approach their head coaching vacancy (The Hockey News)

Around the NHL:

The Anaheim Ducks relieved Greg Cronin of his duties as head coach (NBC Sports)

Winnipeg Jets forward Kyle Connor netted the game-winning goal with 96 seconds remaining in regulation to secure a 5-3 victory over the St. Louis Blues in the opening game of the 2025 playoffs (TSN)

David Morassutti examines which underdogs have the best chance of toppling their opponents in the playoffs (Sportsnet)

The Edmonton Oilers agreed to a two-year, $2.6 million contract extension with defenseman Ty Emberson (ESPN)