Who Could Replace Chris Drury? Top Candidates who could Become the New York Rangers’ Next GM

The New York Rangers are at a crossroads. Following a reported players-only meeting in which frustrations were aired, it's become clear the team's issues go deeper than head coach Peter Laviolette.

The players wearing the sweaters are furious at General Manager and President Chris Drury. While Drury's tenure has two Eastern Conference Finals appearances in three years. The way he's handled certain situations has raised questions about his leadership. If owner James Dolan decides it's time for a change, the Blueshirts may soon be looking for its next GM.

Let's take a look at who could possibly be the candidates, should a firing take place:

Jason Botterill (Seattle Kraken Assistant GM)

Jason Botterill has a wealth of front-office experience, having served as the GM of the Buffalo Sabres from 2017 to 2020. While his tenure there was rocky — mainly due to organizational instability — Botterill has rebuilt his reputation as an integral part of the Kraken's leadership team. In Seattle, he helped build a competitive roster in just two seasons, as the team reached the elite eight in their sophomore year two years ago. Botterill excels in managing the salary cap and overseeing scouting operations.

He's also keen to have strong communication within his teams, which would be critical for repairing what it appears to be a somewhat-broken Rangers' locker room.

Laurence Gilman (Toronto Maple Leafs Assistant GM)

Laurence Gilman is one of the sharpest minds in hockey, with a track record that spans nearly two decades. He served as assistant GM of the Vancouver Canucks during their Stanley Cup Final run in 2011, in shaping the expansion draft rules that helped build the Vegas Golden Knights into a Cup finalist in their inaugural season. Currently overseeing the Toronto Marlies, the Maple Leafs' AHL affiliate, he's a pipeline of young talent while maintaining a deep understanding of the cap system. Gilman's extensive experience and reputation for being "well-connected" make him an intriguing option.

Ryan Martin (New York Rangers Assistant GM)

Before joining the Rangers in 2021, where he's been ever since, Ryan Martin spent 16 years with the Detroit Red Wings, working under legendary GM Ken Holland. In New York, Martin has been involved in all aspects of hockey operations, including scouting, salary cap management, and overseeing the Hartford Wolf Pack, the Rangers' AHL affiliate. He's known for his calm demeanor and deep understanding of the pro and amateur scouting worlds. The incumbent has already interviewed for GM roles elsewhere, including with the Anaheim Ducks, where he reportedly impressed ownership. Martin would be the choice if the Rangers want a seamless transition and internal refreshment.

Mathieu Darche (Tampa Bay Lightning Assistant GM)

The former NHL veteran could help stop lingering trust issues in the Rangers' locker room. In Tampa Bay, Mathieu Darche has overseen contract negotiations, budgeting, and salary cap management, contributing to the Bolts' back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021. He also served on the NHLPA's negotiating team during the 2012-13 lockout. Darche has already interviewed for GM roles with teams like the Montreal Canadiens, making him a likely candidate for future vacancies around the league.

Sean Avery (Former Ranger)

This one is as wild as the man, but it's possible.

Rumors are swirling that Avery is meeting with James Dolan to "talk about the state of the Rangers." He's got no front-office experience, but maybe that's the appeal to someone like Dolan after a month filled with frustration and finger-pointing.

Fans loved him during his five years (2007-2008, 2009-2012) on Broadway. His grit embodied the passion of the Garden faithful. He was never afraid to ruffle feathers, whether it was chirping opponents after whistles or getting under New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur's skin with his infamous "screening" tactics. That same fearlessness could make him an intriguing choice for a GM role. Unlike the soft-spoken Drury, he wouldn't hesitate to make bold moves while being public about his decisions.

Should the Rangers eventually move on from Chris Drury, perhaps one of these candidates will meet the requirements for a necessary replacement. While this article is purely a hypothetical situaton for now, given the Rangers (now 15-15-1) have now lost three in a row and five of their last six games — it may not be a hypothetical for long.