The New York Rangers have promoted Jeff Malcolm, their long-time goaltending consultant, to the role of head goalie coach. Announced on Wednesday, Malcolm, who has been with the organization for six years, is considered a natural fit for the position despite being only 35 years old. His experience with the Rangers runs deep, both as a player and a coach.
Malcolm played four seasons within the Rangers’ system, splitting time between their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack, and the ECHL’s Greenville Road Warriors. As a coach, he spent the last two years as the Goalie Coach for the Wolf Pack, working closely with the Rangers’ outgoing goaltending coach, Benoit Allaire. Allaire, who is transitioning to the role of Goaltending Director, will be succeeded by Brendan Burke, who is leaving his position as Goaltending Director for the Jr. Coyotes Youth Hockey Program to become the Wolf Pack’s new goalie coach.
Malcolm is seen as a good fit for the head coaching role, having built strong relationships with the current group of players. Notably, he played alongside Chris Kreider during the 2013-14 Wolf Pack season, which could help ensure a smooth transition in his new role.
Although Malcolm never made it to the Rangers’ NHL roster, he has significant experience with high-level goaltending, having competed for ice time on the Wolf Pack with current Red Wings goalie and 2023-24 All-Star Cam Talbot. However, his new role comes with its challenges, as he didn’t become the Wolf Pack’s Goaltending Coach until after Igor Shesterkin had already established himself on the Rangers’ roster. Additionally, Malcolm has never coached two-time Stanley Cup champion Jonathan Quick, who is three years older than him, which could create an interesting dynamic.
The Rangers are hopeful that Malcolm, a young but experienced coach, will further enhance their goaltending performance for the 2024-25 season.
