BREAKING NEWS: Rangers Reportedly Exploring Possibility of Luring Mike Sullivan Away from Pittsburgh
April 21, 2025 — In a surprising development that could shake up the NHL coaching landscape, multiple sources have confirmed that the New York Rangers are reportedly doing due diligence to determine whether there’s any possibility of prying head coach Mike Sullivan away from the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Sullivan, who has been behind the Penguins’ bench since 2015, is one of the league’s most respected coaches and the only American-born head coach to win multiple Stanley Cups. His tenure in Pittsburgh has been defined by consistency, strong leadership, and a deep connection with the team’s core—most notably Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.
According to insider reports, the Rangers’ front office, led by general manager Chris Drury, is exploring all potential options to bolster their bench leadership after another season that fell short of Stanley Cup expectations. While Peter Laviolette has led the Rangers to playoff appearances, there’s a growing sense within the organization that a new voice with a proven playoff pedigree might be the final piece to elevate the team to championship status.
The idea of targeting Sullivan, however, is ambitious. He is currently under contract with the Penguins through the 2026-27 season, and there has been no public indication from Pittsburgh’s management that they are willing to let him walk. However, with the Penguins in the midst of a subtle organizational transition—balancing the twilight of the Crosby-Malkin era with a need to build for the future—there is speculation that a shakeup could be on the horizon, particularly if the team fails to qualify for the postseason again.
It’s unclear at this stage whether the Rangers have officially requested permission to speak with Sullivan or if any formal discussions have taken place. What is clear, however, is that New York is leaving no stone unturned in its pursuit of an elite coach to guide its talented roster, which includes stars like Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox, and Igor Shesterkin.
If the Rangers were to succeed in bringing Sullivan to Madison Square Garden, it would be one of the most significant coaching moves in recent NHL history, potentially reigniting a classic division rivalry between the Rangers and Penguins from the bench out.
Both franchises have remained tight-lipped on the matter. When asked about the rumors, Penguins GM Kyle Dubas offered a terse “no comment,” while Rangers representatives declined to address the coaching situation directly.
For now, all eyes will remain on Pittsburgh and New York as this story develops. Will the Penguins allow the Rangers to speak with Sullivan? Could Sullivan himself be tempted by the opportunity to coach in the Big Apple? Or will this remain a bold but ultimately fruitless pursuit?
As the offseason approaches, this coaching subplot could become one of the NHL’s most intriguing storylines. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.