According to multiple sources, former Tampa Bay Lightning Head Coach John Tortorella is set to be the next Head Coach of the New York Rangers. The contract is reportedly for a multi-year deal.
The announcement is said to be made official once the Rangers and Lightning agree on compensation as Tortorella is still under contract by Tampa Bay despite being fired in the off-season.
Tortorella comes back to New York where he was an Assistant Coach from 1999 - 2000 under John Muckler and served as the team's Interim Head Coach for the remainder of that season before joining the Lightning in the off-season.
His aggressive Keenan-esque style made him successful in winning the Jack Adams Award and Stanley Cup in 2003 - 2004, but many criticized his extreme nature as the downfall of the Lightning following their championship victory.
The embattled coach had run-ins with the media as well, most notably NY Post columnist Larry Brooks during the 2007 playoffs.
His personality, while controversial, is a significant change from the calculated and mild-mannered Tom Renney. This could serve as the shakeup this group needs.
Once the announcement is officially made, GM Glen Sather will hold a teleconference. Stay tuned for additional details as they unfold...