David Quinn leans on Lindy Ruff and Chris Drury for their NHL playoff experience

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This is David Quinn’s first experience with the NHL playoffs. Naturally, any person who is going into something for the first time seeks advice. On the latest episode of MSG’s Home Ice with David Quinn, I asked that very question to the young Rangers coach.

David Quinn leans on Lindy Ruff and Chris Drury

”Obviously it’s nice to be part of this organization,” Quinn began. “A lot of people have been involved in a lot of playoff games in this organization.” He did cite two names specifically and one was his assistant coach.

”Obviously Lindy Ruff, who has coached in a lot of NHL playoff games and has a lot of success,” Quinn answered. Ruff did win coach of the year in the 2005-2006 season and has coached in 1493 regular season games winning 736 of them. As for Ruff’s playoff record, he was 66-54 including a heartbreaking Stanley Cup Final loss with the Buffalo Sabres against the Dallas Stars in 1998-1999.

Quinn and Drury (NHL/NYR)

Another name Quinn mentioned is assistant general manager Chris Drury who played his fair share of meaningful playoff games. His best run came as a 24 year-old in the 2000-2001season. En route to that Stanley Cup championship, Drury notched 11 goals and 16 points for the Colorado Avalanche in 23 games.

So when it comes to seeking any advice, Quinn has plenty of people to talk with. For him, it’s all about doing the same things they’ve been doing. The real key to success will be doing it “a little bit harder and a little bit faster”.

By Anthony Scultore

Anthony Scultore has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL since 2014. His work also appears at... More about Anthony Scultore

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