New York Rangers Enhance Front Office with NHL Veterans Wheeler and Clowe
The New York Rangers are making significant strides in their front office as they gear up for their centennial season. On Monday, the franchise announced the addition of former NHL players Blake Wheeler and Ryane Clowe to their executive team, bolstering the organization with experienced voices. Alongside these new appointments, the Rangers have promoted Jim Sullivan and Ryan Martin from their AHL affiliate in Hartford, with Martin set to take on the role of general manager for the Wolf Pack.
Wheeler and Clowe Join the Ranks
Blake Wheeler has been appointed as a hockey operations adviser, while Ryane Clowe steps in as assistant general manager under Chris Drury. Clowe, who has been part of the Rangers’ hockey operations department for the past three seasons in various advisory roles, took on a position last year as assistant general manager for the San Jose Sharks, working alongside Mike Grier. His return to the Rangers marks a continuation of his career trajectory towards a future general manager role in the NHL.
Hailing from St. John’s, Newfoundland, Clowe’s experience is extensive. After battling head injuries that led to his retirement in 2015, he transitioned into coaching, eventually guiding him back to front office work. His return to the Rangers signifies a homecoming of sorts, as he originally began his front-office journey with the team in 2021. Clowe’s brief playing stint with the Rangers during the 2013 lockout-shortened season adds a layer of insight into the team’s dynamics.
A Modern Perspective with Wheeler
Wheeler, who retired from the NHL in July, brings a contemporary perspective to the Rangers, having played just two seasons ago. His recent experience on the ice is expected to foster better communication between the players and the front office—a critical concern during a disappointing 2024-25 campaign that saw the team finish with only 85 points and miss the playoffs.
Wheeler’s addition also aligns with Drury’s vision of cultivating a strong American influence within the organization. As a representative of the United States at the Winter Olympics, he contributed to the U.S. team that finished fourth at the 2014 Sochi Games.
Strengthening the American Influence
The influence of American hockey continues with the promotions of Sullivan and Martin, both of whom have also contributed to USA Hockey. Martin had a pivotal role as the general manager for the IIHF World Championship in 2022, while Sullivan is entering his 17th season with the Rangers and is a proud Boston College alum. Their presence complements a coaching staff that is heavily populated by American talent, including Mike Sullivan, David Quinn, Joe Sacco, and Ty Hennes, all of whom share New England roots.
As the Rangers prepare for their centennial season, excitement is building. Their rookie camp kicks off Wednesday, with veteran players slated to report next week. The team will face off against the New Jersey Devils in their first preseason game on September 21 at Prudential Center. Over the course of the preseason, the Rangers will engage in six matchups, including two games each against the Devils, Boston Bruins, and their cross-town rivals, the New York Islanders.
The Rangers will officially launch their 100th NHL season on October 7, hosting the Pittsburgh Penguins at Madison Square Garden. The Penguins, coached by Mike Sullivan for the past decade, represent both a challenge and a notable rivalry as the Rangers embark on a milestone year.
