In a stunning development, the New York Rangers may have scored a major victory after a seismic coaching change within the division. The Pittsburgh Penguins announced Monday they have parted ways with longtime head coach Mike Sullivan — opening the door for the Rangers to make a bold move.
The Rangers, who dismissed Peter Laviolette just over a week ago following a disastrous 2024-25 season, are searching for a new leader behind the bench. With Sullivan now available, New York finds itself perfectly positioned to land one of the most respected and accomplished coaches in the NHL.
Sullivan, who still had two years left on his Penguins contract, immediately becomes a top candidate for the Rangers. It’s widely believed general manager Chris Drury had previously attempted to lure Sullivan to New York, and now he may finally have his chance.
The 57-year-old is a proven winner. He led Pittsburgh to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017, and his 409 coaching victories are the most in franchise history. His overall total of 479 NHL wins ranks 32nd all-time, and his experience as a former Rangers assistant coach from 2009-2013 only strengthens the potential fit.
While Sullivan will certainly draw interest from several other teams — there are currently six other coaching vacancies around the league — the Rangers present an especially attractive destination. With a core built around Igor Shesterkin, Adam Fox, Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, J.T. Miller, Vincent Trocheck, Alexis Lafreniere, Will Cuylle, Gabe Perreault, K’Andre Miller, and Braden Schneider, New York offers a win-now roster primed for a deep playoff run.
Sullivan has also coached many of these players at international tournaments, including the 4 Nations Face-Off and the upcoming 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, where he will lead Team USA.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh finds itself in a difficult position. Despite the continued presence of stars like Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Kris Letang, and Erik Karlsson, the Penguins missed the playoffs for a third straight season, finishing seventh in the Metropolitan DivisiMike Sullivanon. General manager Kyle Dubas acknowledged that while Sullivan remains a “great head coach,” it was time for a change.
“I believe two things can be true: someone can be a great coach and still need a fresh start elsewhere,” Dubas said Monday. “I have immense respect for Sully but felt it was time for a new direction.”
Fortunately for Sullivan — and possibly for the Rangers — the timing could not be better. Dubas made it clear he will not block Sullivan from pursuing other opportunities, meaning Chris Drury could move quickly to secure the veteran coach.
Given Sullivan’s championship pedigree, familiarity with New York, and success in managing high-pressure teams, he could be exactly what the Rangers need to rebound from their most disappointing season in years.
In short: a huge decision by the Rangers could now turn into a huge win for New York — and a massive loss for a division rival.
