Sean Avery did not hold back when asked about New York Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette, bluntly stating that he would fire him immediately. Avery’s harsh critique comes amid a challenging period for the Rangers, who have lost eight of their last ten games. The team now finds itself tied with the New York Islanders for last place in the Metropolitan Division, a far cry from their Eastern Conference Finals appearance just last season.
The string of poor performances has raised serious questions about the team’s direction, and many fans and analysts are calling for significant changes. Laviolette’s job security has become a major talking point, with some advocating for his dismissal.
Adding to the scrutiny, Avery, a former Rangers forward, reportedly met with general manager Chris Drury to discuss the team’s struggles. Appearing on the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, Avery was asked by co-host Paul Bissonnette whether Laviolette should be let go. His response was emphatic: “I’d fire him today.”
Avery elaborated on his stance, pointing to the team’s high expectations as a big-market franchise and their near-success last year. “Unfortunately, that’s part of it,” he said. “The coach goes first… but then what? Who do you bring in? The whole system is broken.” Avery also criticized the team’s reliance on technology, such as iPads on the bench, suggesting it detracts from player focus during games.
Avery didn’t stop at Laviolette, also suggesting that the Rangers should trade defenseman K’Andre Miller. Miller has struggled this season, posting just six points and a -5 rating in 28 games. Avery argued that Miller lacks the mental toughness for a big market like New York, stating, “You’ve got to move him now, while he has trade value.”
With the Rangers having already made significant roster changes, including trading former captain Jacob Trouba and forward Kaapo Kakko, the team faces mounting pressure to reverse its fortunes. Whether Laviolette can survive this turbulent stretch remains to be seen, but it’s clear his position is under intense scrutiny.
