Coaching Update on Mike Sullivan

Head coach Mike Sullivan missed the Rangers’ 2-1 defeat against the Red Wings on Sunday due to personal reasons.

He could potentially return when the Rangers kick off their Western Swing on Tuesday in Las Vegas.

“We don’t have any updates right now,” said assistant coach David Quinn after the game. “Everyone—coaches, players, and the whole organization—is definitely thinking about Mike and his family. It’s never straightforward when you have to prioritize family matters.”

Quinn, who previously held the head coach position for three seasons, is currently sharing coaching responsibilities with Joe Sacco.

Even if the need arises for an assistant to cover for Sullivan again, Quinn believes the team will manage just fine.

“For Joe and I, it was pretty seamless because I was in charge. All season, Joe supported Mike with his line decisions,” Quinn remarked. “It ended up being a smooth experience for both us and the players.”

A week after promoting Gabe Perreault in an attempt to boost the offense, the Rangers sent the 20-year-old back to Hartford on Sunday. Sullivan had initially set Perreault up for success by placing him on the top line alongside JT Miller and Mika Zibanejad. However, the 5-foot-11 forward, who was a first-round pick in 2023, only managed two shots and an assist over three games. He faced challenges in capitalizing on his limited touches and space, averaging just over 13 minutes on the ice in that span.

“This league is tough,” Quinn noted. “Gabe has immense talent and a promising future, but it can be a challenge physically and in terms of pace. We felt this experience was part of his development. Now that he’s going back down, it should be beneficial for his growth.”

Defenseman Scott Morrow was recalled from Hartford and made his NHL debut, playing just under ten minutes. Meanwhile, defenseman Will Borgen missed his second consecutive game due to an upper-body injury.