Two observations about the Rangers’ search that yielded David Quinn as the club’s presumptive next head coach, pending an announcement of a signed-and-sealed contract that should come by Tuesday.
First, it was not extensive. Ownership and management were clear on the traits they were seeking in Alain Vigneault’s successor. Primary among them are the ability to communicate with, teach, develop and motivate younger players while taking a more hands-on approach to team building and leadership. As such, general manager Jeff Gorton and Chris Drury zoned in early on BU’s Quinn and University of Denver’s Jim Montgomery.
The Rangers did not consider veteran NHL coaches Bill Peters, Darryl Sutter, Dave Tippet or Dan Bylsma.