Mike Sullivan, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, was named as the New York Rangers’ next head coach on Friday. The move comes just days after Sullivan’s departure from the Pittsburgh Penguins. This marks Sullivan’s third stint with the Rangers, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing season. The team’s collapse in the second half of the 2023-24 season led to the firing of Peter Laviolette, paving the way for Sullivan to return.
Sullivan has an impressive coaching record, including a 70-56-15 mark with the Boston Bruins and a 409-255 record with the Penguins. However, his time in Pittsburgh was marred by early playoff exits despite consistent success. The team finished under .500 last season, leading to Sullivan’s firing. Despite this, the Rangers are optimistic that Sullivan can lead them back to form.
Sullivan spent several years as an assistant coach for various teams, including the Tampa Bay Lightning and Vancouver Canucks, before joining the Penguins. He previously served as an assistant with the Rangers from 2009-10 to 2012-13. The veteran coach will bring his experience and expertise to the position, aiming to turn around the team’s fortunes.
Source: https://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/breaking-news/article/rangers-hire-mike-sullivan-as-next-head-coach-just-days-after-he-was-fired-by-penguins-130912643.html