The New York Rangers have made a significant move by appointing Mike Sullivan as their new head coach, just days after he and the Pittsburgh Penguins ended their professional relationship.
General Manager Chris Drury revealed the decision on Friday, expressing enthusiasm about acquiring the organization’s top candidate. Sullivan found a new opportunity within the NHL almost immediately.
“Mike Sullivan has shown himself to be one of the top head coaches in the league,” Drury commented. “His presence brings a championship mindset to our team. As soon as the chance arose to engage with him, it became evident he was the best choice to lead us forward.”
Sullivan steps into the role previously held by Peter Laviolette, who was dismissed after the Rangers failed to reach the playoffs, despite making it to the Eastern Conference final the previous year. Known for guiding the Penguins to consecutive Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017, Sullivan now faces the challenge of revitalizing the Rangers as a potent contender.
Drury’s decision to recruit Sullivan came shortly after he secured a multiyear extension for himself.
“Mike’s achievements in the NHL and international arenas are undeniable, and I’m eager to see him bring his expertise to the Rangers’ bench,” stated owner James Dolan. “We are thrilled to welcome Mike back to the Rangers organization.”
Sullivan, now 57, brings past experience with the Rangers, having served as an assistant coach from 2009 to 2013 under longtime friend and mentor John Tortorella. During that time, he coached Drury and the two have collaborated through USA Hockey, including the recent 4 Nations Face-Off event. They are also engaged with the U.S. hockey team for the 2026 Milan Olympics.
There is speculation that John Tortorella, who was recently let go as coach of the Philadelphia Flyers, might join Sullivan’s staff, as he had during the 4 Nations tournament. However, the Rangers have not confirmed any assistant staff appointments as of Friday, with discussions expected in the upcoming days.
Sullivan’s tenure with the Penguins began in December 2015 after Mike Johnston was relieved of his duties. This marks Sullivan’s third head coaching role in the NHL, following a brief period with the Boston Bruins during 2003-04 and 2005-06, interrupted by a full-season lockout.
Sullivan’s move to New York leaves vacancies for head coaches among several NHL teams, including Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, Anaheim, Seattle, and Vancouver. Teams previously interested in Sullivan must now consider alternatives, such as Rick Tocchet, Joel Quenneville, and Peter Laviolette, or look at successful college coaches like Denver’s David Carle and Western Michigan’s Pat Ferschweiler.