This story is powered by Betalytics — the intelligent platform for sports betting — and by Rude Hockey apparel.
Mollie Walker “reported” in the NY Post on Friday that MSG executive chairman and CEO James Dolan is handing over the day-to-day ownership responsibilities for the New York Rangers to his son Quentin. I use the quotes around “reported” because it’s pretty clear that Mollie was given this story first. For those on X and other platforms wringing their hands or ripping Ms. Walker, is this any different than certain players preferring to talk to certain reporters or James Dolan appearing on Carton and Big Mac for his first public speaking appearance in years? If Larry Brooks had reported this about New York, would the consternation and pushback be the same?
In the grand scheme of MSG and the Blueshirts, this is somewhat of a paper transaction. Talk to me down the road when the sale and split of the two entities happens, as that may create a bigger change in the structure of both. This change solely relates to the Rangers; the Knicks, which really is James’ baby, remain status quo with Jim Dolan remaining in his executive chairman role.
“For the Rangers, 32-year-old Quentin Dolan assumes the titles of Rangers president, chief operating officer and alternate governor. Rangers president and general manager Chris Drury will now report to him instead of James Dolan. The hierarchical change does not impact Drury’s responsibilities in hockey operations. Drury will continue to lead all decision-making for the Rangers and work collaboratively with the fourth-oldest of the six Dolan sons.”Quentin has been involved with the overall MSG organization and infrastructure for years, as well as playing a role in the two professional teams for five years.
As the column noted. Quentin’s most notable position was SVP of player performance and science for both the Rangers and Knicks, following various roles at MSG Sports and service on the MSG Sports board of directors since 2021. Part of his responsibilities included overseeing medical, strength and conditioning, nutrition, mental performance and performance data operations for both teams.
Prior to becoming SVP, Dolan also served as vice president, strategic adviser to the executive chairman, and as investment director. He’s worked progressively closer with his dad over the years. The younger Dolan was heavily involved in the Knicks recently ending their 53-year NBA title drought. Knicks head coach Mike Brown even gave him a shoutout during a press conference in March for his efforts in piecing together the plan that kept the oft-injured Mitchell Robinson healthy.
An NYU alum — who got his bachelor’s degree in sports and events management — Dolan already has a working relationship with Drury and Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan, which should help ease him into his new responsibilities. Building relationships has been a priority for Dolan, who recognizes the importance of collaboration while instilling a winning culture. Establishing a new culture around the Rangers, who have missed the playoffs each of the past two seasons and are in the midst of a retool, will be a critical first step for Quintin Dolan.
Braden Schneider-Shane Wright
Where there is smoke, sometimes, there is fire. If I had a nickel for every time Schneider’s name was mentioned as being on the block or in a trade rumor, I would be a very wealthy man. The same is true for Wright, almost from the day he slipped in the draft and was selected by Seattle. Wright has been on the block almost forever during his stint with the Kraken?
Could this be a match match in heaven? In full disclosure, I am not a big Wright fan. I personally think he has underachieved and not shown me enough to warrant his high draft selection, with his drop from first overall having a material psychological impact from which he may not have recovered. His stint in Seattle has been pockmarked with disappointments.
The same can be said to a certain extent on Schneider, especially among Rangers fans whose first true exposure to him was seeing JD pump his fists in the draft room when the team traded up to select the blueliner right in front of the Devils. Schneider was solid when first promoted in 2021-22, showing top-four skill during the playoff run. Since then, his play has leveled off at best or declined at worst, especially when compared to expectations.
On paper, trading Schneider for Wright could solve a problem for both teams. Seattle wants to move on from Wright. He could slot in as New York’s 2C, allowing JT Miller to move back to wing, though Miller wants to remain at center. Wright would provide the team a cost-controlled middle-six center, which is a need, though that would come with the belief that more responsibility would equate to more production.
In the case of Schneider, the acquisitions of Marcus Pettersson and Sean Durzi likely move Schneider to the third line, where he is better suited. Determining the contract to offer the restricted free agent defenseman has been one of the more challenging pieces of the puzzle. His value on the team and in the league is depressed, almost like that of Wright. But a 24-year-old blueliner who can play either side and has upside if his talent can be unlocked has value.
If you ask for my opinion, I would decline that deal, though as noted, I am not a Wright fan. The Rangers still need another top-nine player who can score, as that is where the team lacks depth. Don’t be shocked if Anthony Mantha or Michael Bunting is inked to a one-year deal if a trade is not made. Plus, I want to see if Schneider can recapture his 2021-22 form.
Home › Forums › Rangers Org. Update: Schneider for Wright?
Tagged: New York Rangers, nhl