The New York Rangers fired coach John Tortorella days after losing in the conference semifinals to the Boston Bruins. Tortorella's four-year stint with the Rangers ended on Wednesday, CBS Sports reports.
New York came into the season with high expectations. They entered the preseason as early favorites for the Stanley Cup, but instead struggled throughout the regular season and playoffs. New York squeaked by the Washington Capitals in the playoffs with a Game 7 win and ultimately fell to Boston in five games.
The Rangers fell short of where they were last year, and ultimately Tortorella paid the price. While the Rangers played well behind goalie Henrik Lundqvist, the offense never found success under Tortorella and floundered in the postseason. Even with the acquisition of Rick Nash during the offseason, the Rangers still had an underwhelming offense and finished in sixth in the conference.
His firing could also be an attempt to sway reigning Vezina Trophy winner Lundqvist to stay in New York, according to ESPN. When asked about signing a long-term contract with the Rangers, the goalie replied, "We'll see."
Tortorella, 54, became the Ranger's head coach in February 2009. The hot-tempered coach guided New York to four playoff appearances, but was never able to get further than the conference finals.
New York hasn't announced a replacement.
