Rangers Celebrate 100 Years with New Analyst
This season marks a significant milestone for the Rangers, celebrating their 100th anniversary as a franchise. With this celebration comes new energy, particularly in their broadcasting team.
On Wednesday, Dave Maloney was announced as the new TV analyst for Rangers broadcasts, stepping in for Joe Micheletti alongside Kenny Albert on MSG Networks for the upcoming 2025-26 season.
“Honestly, I couldn’t be more excited,” Maloney shared during a conference call with a reporter. “I’m really looking forward to taking on this role. It feels a bit overwhelming, but it should be a lot of fun.”
Reflecting on his long-standing collaboration with Albert, Maloney added, “It’s funny to think about it. We’ve been working together for 20 years, and it’s like… well, we aren’t an old divorced couple or anything!”
Maloney’s media journey began back in the 1981 playoffs when he sustained a knee injury during his seventh season with the Rangers. At that time, he joined the radio booth alongside Murph Albert and Sal Messina.
Kenny Albert was just a child back then, and now, as Maloney’s booth partner, he feels it’s a remarkable full-circle moment.
“It really piqued my interest,” the 68-year-old reminisced about his first experience calling an NHL game. He recalled a conversation with his teammate Ron Greschner, who remarked, “I’m not surprised you’re in this business because you never could stay quiet as a player.”
For Maloney, broadcasting is the closest he can get to the game he loves, considering he dedicated 11 years of his life to the NHL, mostly with the Rangers. His passion for the sport is palpable.
Drafted 14th overall in 1974, Maloney played for the Rangers from 1974-75 until 1984-85. In October 1978, he became the youngest captain in the team’s history at just 22 years old, leading the Rangers to the 1979 Stanley Cup Final. His first season as captain also featured a famous appearance in a Sasson Jeans commercial with teammates.
Maloney’s stats include over 605 games played and more than 225 assists, and he won the MVP award in the 1976-77 season. Eventually, he was traded to Buffalo in December 1984, but played only 52 games before retiring in 1985.
After hanging up his skates, Maloney took on various broadcasting roles with outlets like Canadian CTV and Fox. He started as a radio analyst for MSG Networks during the 2005-06 season.
“One of the key lessons I’ve learned is how deep my passion runs for this franchise,” he stated. “Expressing myself as an analyst is critical; it’s not just about criticism. You can’t forget how challenging the game really is.”
Despite enjoying his radio work, Maloney is eager to transition to a full-time TV role, feeling confident about working with Albert and the MSG team.
When Micheletti announced his move, Maloney was quick to show interest in the position.
His insights about the Rangers reveal a strong commitment to the team. “I think we can all agree that changes are needed,” he said regarding the current state of the team. “While I respect Peter [Laviolette], I believe both Mike Sullivan and David Quinn have valuable experience in the New York market, which is quite challenging.” He mentioned conversations with them during a recent development camp, emphasizing that despite last season’s hurdles, it’s time to move forward.
Maloney also noted that Chris Drury and his team recognize the need for adjustments. He mentioned Vladislav Gabrikov as a top defensive prospect, and while he appreciates the quieter approach of players like Urho Vaakanainen and Will Borgen, he expressed enthusiasm for the team’s potential, especially with top goaltenders leading the way.
“There’s so much to consider from last year, and I’m genuinely excited about what’s ahead,” he concluded.
