NEW YORK RANGERS BRING BACK HENRIK LUNDQVIST AS SPECIAL ADVISOR TO HOCKEY OPERATIONS – KING HENRIK RETURNS WITH AN ANNUAL DEAL WORTH……READ MORE…..
In a move that sent a wave of excitement through Madison Square Garden and across the hockey world, the New York Rangers have announced the return of one of the most iconic figures in franchise history. Henrik Lundqvist, affectionately known as “King Henrik,” is officially back with the Rangers, this time as Special Advisor to Hockey Operations. His new role will come with a reported annual salary of $2.2 million, signifying the organization’s deep commitment to both hockey excellence and legacy leadership.
The announcement was made Tuesday morning by Rangers President and General Manager Chris Drury, who called Lundqvist’s return “a monumental moment for the franchise.”
“Henrik isn’t just a Rangers legend—he’s a symbol of professionalism, work ethic, and grace,” Drury said. “We are thrilled to have him back in the fold, helping shape the future of this team.”
Lundqvist, who spent his entire 15-season NHL career with the Rangers before retiring in 2021, remains the franchise’s all-time leader in wins (459), shutouts (64), and playoff appearances by a goaltender. He was a five-time NHL All-Star, Vezina Trophy winner in 2012, and a perennial cornerstone of the Rangers’ postseason runs in the 2010s.
“This is home,” Lundqvist said during a press conference held at Madison Square Garden. “I may have stepped off the ice, but my heart never left this organization. I’m honored to be back, working with a team I love and contributing in a new way.”
As Special Advisor to Hockey Operations, Lundqvist will work closely with the Rangers’ front office on player development, scouting evaluations, and team culture. He’ll also serve as a mentor to the goaltending pipeline and act as a liaison between the players and executive leadership—bridging the gap between the locker room and the boardroom with a voice that commands instant respect.
“Henrik brings a unique perspective,” said head coach Peter Laviolette. “He knows what it takes to lead, to win, and to do it under the brightest lights in the league. His presence will have a real, daily impact—especially on our younger players.”
The 42-year-old Swede retired from playing due to a heart condition that ultimately prevented him from suiting up for the Washington Capitals, with whom he had signed in 2020. Since retiring, Lundqvist has remained active in hockey media and philanthropy, notably working as an analyst on MSG Networks and continuing his support for the Henrik Lundqvist Foundation, which benefits children’s health and education programs worldwide.
His return to the Rangers’ inner circle has been years in the making, and for fans, it feels like a perfect match.
Social media was instantly ablaze with the news. Hashtags like #KingHenrikReturns and #ForeverBlueshirt began trending within minutes of the announcement. Fans posted photos, videos, and heartfelt messages celebrating the return of the franchise icon.
“I never thought I’d see him in a suit working the front office,” joked one fan on Twitter. “But if anyone’s gonna lead us to a Cup from off the ice, it’s the King!”
Former teammates echoed that sentiment. Ryan McDonagh, who captained the Rangers during much of Lundqvist’s prime, shared a message: “Hank was the heartbeat of our team. If there’s a next wave of greatness coming, he’ll be a huge part of it.”
The $2.2 million annual salary places Lundqvist among the top-paid advisors in the NHL, signaling how highly the Rangers value his influence. His role also includes a seat at the draft table, involvement in free agency discussions, and a leadership position in shaping the team’s goaltending development plan.
Lundqvist made it clear this wasn’t a ceremonial role. “I’m not here to be a figurehead,” he said. “I want to work, to learn, and to help us win—on the ice and in every department.”
He also acknowledged the emotional significance of the moment, recalling his earliest days as a rookie in 2005.
“I came to New York not knowing what to expect. The fans embraced me, the city challenged me, and this organization gave me everything,” Lundqvist said. “Now, I get to give something back.”
With the Rangers poised for another deep playoff push, adding a leader like Lundqvist to the front office may prove to be more than symbolic—it could be a winning move.
“He’s already got a statue in the hearts of Rangers fans,” said MSG broadcaster Sam Rosen. “Now, he’s building something even bigger—one decision at a time.”
