Day: February 24, 2009

Reading the comments from many fans after yesterday’s firing of Tom Renney, and one might come away with the feeling that the season is suddenly saved, and the Rangers are once again a playoff contender. After spirally towards the bottom of the playoff picture with ten losses in the last twelve games, it’s clear that “Torts” (as John Tortorella is affectionately known) has his work cut out for him.

While many commentators have chosen to recognize what Tom Renney has done for the Rangers, others have taken the chance to fire shots at General Manager Glen Sather and the roster he has assembled, claiming his selections, not coaching philosophy were the reasons for the failure on the ice.

Some interesting news and notes in the papers and media blogs today, as John Tortorella ran his first practice. Mike Pelino, who was not given a pink slip, has however been relegated to the video room by Tortorella. The new coach told Pelino he wanted a new start and asked him to help Jerry Dineen with the video work.

Tortorella has taken on the responsibility of running the offense and power play, and has asked Jim Schoenfeld to work on the PK and defense. Benoit Allaire stays on to coach Lundqvist. The issue that apparently needed to be worked out with Tampa may very well have been whether or not Mike Sullivan could join the Rangers as an assistant.