NHL Rumors: Rangers, Red Wings linked to controversial ex-Blackhawks head coach

The New York Rangers and Detroit Red Wings are reportedly interested in former Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville. The Rangers have struggled this season under Peter Laviolette, with their record sitting at 13-9-1. Laviolette has not delivered the same success he achieved during the 2023-24 season, raising questions about his future.

General manager Chris Drury is rumored to be considering replacing Laviolette. Joel Quenneville, a three-time Stanley Cup-winning coach, has emerged as a potential candidate.

Quenneville resigned in 2021 following the Kyle Beach incident during his time in Chicago. He and former GM Stan Bowman lost their jobs but were reinstated by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman earlier this year. Bettman said Quenneville has done the work needed to return to the NHL. Stan Bowman works as the Edmonton Oilers’ GM, and Quenneville may follow him back to the league.

According to TSN 690’s Marco D’Amico, Quenneville could replace Laviolette. The latter's situation drew comparisons to Gerard Gallant, who had success but still lost his job.

"Laviolette doesn't have long there, I'm hearing Quenneville could be the guy there if that's the route [GM Chris Drury] goes," trusted NHL source reveals key insight to RG.

Quenneville’s stellar coaching record (452-249-96) makes him a strong candidate for teams looking for proven success. It remains to be seen if the Rangers or Red Wings will bring Quenneville back to the league.

New York Rangers broke five game losing skid with 4-3 win

Kaapo Kakko’s power-play goal with 24 seconds left helped the Rangers beat the Montreal Canadiens 4-3. The win ended their five-game losing streak.

The Rangers led 3-1 but gave up third-period goals to Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki. A late high-sticking penalty on Kirby Dach gave the NYR a power play, and Kakko scored the winner.

Mika Zibanejad and Artemi Panarin each contributed a goal and an assist. Meanwhile, Jonathan Quick reached a career milestone with 25 saves, securing his 398th victory in the NHL.

The Rangers went 3-for-6 on the power play and were perfect on the penalty kill. Montreal’s Sam Montembeault stopped 24 shots but couldn’t stop the late goal.

Caufield and Suzuki each had a goal and assist for the Canadiens (8-12-3). Montreal felt they played better but struggled with special teams.

The Rangers will next host the New Jersey Devils on December 2 at 7:00 PM EST.