The New York Rangers have announced Mike Sullivan as their new head coach, marking the 38th appointment in franchise history. The announcement came Friday, concluding a two-week search that started right after the Pittsburgh Penguins parted ways with him on April 28.
This position is significant, especially since the Rangers’ president and general manager Chris Drury’s first major decision back in 2021 was to relieve David Quinn of his duties. It’s interesting to think how things might have turned out differently if Sullivan had been available back then. Perhaps the team wouldn’t have experienced the two-year terms of Gerald Gallant and Peter Laviolette.
Life has a way of working itself out, doesn’t it?
Prior to his appointment, Sullivan was dismissed by Pittsburgh after a challenging season that saw the team miss the postseason yet again. Just nine days after his exit, the Rangers finalized their decision to move on from Laviolette on April 19. Now, Sullivan steps into this role with extensive experience—917 regular season games and 89 playoff appearances, having achieved remarkable success during his long tenure with the Penguins, highlighted by back-to-back Stanley Cup wins in 2016 and 2017.
At 57, his coaching record stands impressively at 409 wins, 255 losses, and 89 ties, giving him a win percentage of .537. It’s quite a track record. Drury and Sullivan recently collaborated on NHL matters in Montreal and Boston, serving as assistant general managers and head coaches, respectively. They also share a connection to Boston University, where Sullivan assisted during the 2009-11 seasons, coinciding with Drury’s final playing years.
Drury commented on Sullivan’s impressive coaching resume, noting his championship experience and success with team USA on the international front. “Mike brings a level of championship presence,” he said in a statement. Their relationship has been built over years, dating back to their time at the 1997 World Championships.
Moreover, Sullivan has worked alongside several Rangers players, including Adam Fox, Chris Kreider, JT Miller, and Vincent Trochek during the Four Nations Tournament.
