| | NEW YORK -- Wayne Gretzky doesn't appear interested in helping the New York Rangers find a new coach and general manager.
As soon as the Rangers fired general manager Neil Smith and coach John Muckler on Tuesday, Gretzky's name surfaced as someone who might be consulted before the next GM and coach are hired.
While Gretzky's agent, Michael Barnett, and Madison Square Garden president Dave Checketts both said the Great One won't be part of the picture, a source close to the team told the Associated Press that he would.
Gretzky, who spent the final three years of his career with the Rangers, remains friendly with the Dolan family, owners of Cablevision and the team.
But Checketts said, "He's a former Ranger and one of the great all-time players. I don't expect him to be a part of that process."
Barnett said Gretzky is not a decision-maker with the Rangers and that the NHL's career-scoring leader has not been approached by the team's owners.
"Wayne is out of hockey, as we speak today, and thoroughly enjoying his retirement," Barnett said. "While he has a very cordial relationship with the Dolans, I would not see Wayne Gretzky either seeking or welcoming the opportunity to provide his personal opinion regarding the Rangers' future."
The Rangers have lost five straight, including their last three by a combined score of 18-3. They are on the verge of missing the playoffs for the third straight season. | |
ALSO SEE
On verge of missing playoffs, Rangers fire GM, coach
Morganti: Rangers' next move matters most
 |
