Career Timeline of Chris Drury: Major Achievements and Milestones

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 23, 2025

From career breakthroughs to professional milestones, explore how Chris Drury made an impact.

Christopher Ellis Drury is an American ice hockey executive and former player. He is currently the president and general manager of the New York Rangers, a position he has held since May 2021. Before his role with the Rangers, Drury was the general manager of their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack. Drury's career transitioned from a successful playing career to a leadership role within the Rangers organization.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1994: Drafted by the Quebec Nordiques

In 1994, after graduating from Fairfield College Preparatory School, Chris Drury was drafted by the Quebec Nordiques 72nd overall in the third round of the NHL Entry Draft.

1998: Began NHL career

In 1998, Chris Drury began his NHL career and was awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie.

2000: 65-point Season

In the 2000-01 season, Chris Drury recorded 65 points. He also won the Stanley Cup with the Avalanche.

2001: 46 point season

In 2001–02, Chris Drury's production dipped to 46 points.

October 1, 2002: Traded to the Calgary Flames

On October 1, 2002, Chris Drury and Stéphane Yelle were traded to the Calgary Flames in exchange for Derek Morris, Dean McAmmond and Jeff Shantz.

July 3, 2003: Traded to the Buffalo Sabres

On July 3, 2003, Chris Drury, along with Steve Bégin, was traded to the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Steven Reinprecht and Rhett Warrener.

2005: Co-captain for the Buffalo Sabres

In 2005, Chris Drury became co-captain for the Buffalo Sabres with Daniel Brière.

2006: Career-high Campaign

In the 2006-07 season, Chris Drury had a career-high 37-goal, 69-point campaign.

July 1, 2007: Signed with the New York Rangers

On July 1, 2007, Chris Drury signed a five-year, $35.25 million contract with the New York Rangers.

2007: Departure from the Buffalo Sabres

In 2007, Chris Drury departed from the Buffalo Sabres via free agency.

October 3, 2008: Named Captain of the New York Rangers

On October 3, 2008, Chris Drury was named the 25th captain in Rangers history.

June 29, 2011: Contract Buyout Accepted

On June 29, 2011, Chris Drury accepted a buy-out of the final year of his contract to become an unrestricted free agent.

July 1, 2011: Unrestricted Free Agent

On July 1, 2011, Chris Drury became an unrestricted free agent.

August 19, 2011: Retirement as a Player

On August 19, 2011, Chris Drury retired as a player.

2012: Drury's contract against 2012-13 Salary Cap

On June 29, 2011, Drury accepted a buy-out of the final year of his contract. Drury would count approximately $1.667 million against the 2012–13 salary cap.

September 2015: Named Director of Player Development

In September 2015, Chris Drury was named the Rangers' director of player development.

September 2016: Promoted to Assistant General Manager

In September 2016, Chris Drury was promoted by the Rangers to assistant general manager. He was also assigned to be the general manager of their AHL affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack.