We are certainly thrilled”: Chris Drury on New York Rangers appointing Mike Sullivan head coach in NHL’s richest coaching contract…read more…

“We are certainly thrilled”: Chris Drury on New York Rangers appointing Mike Sullivan head coach in NHL’s richest coaching contract…read more…

New York, NY – June 19, 2025 – In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NHL, the New York Rangers have officially named Mike Sullivan as their new head coach, signing him to a record-setting deal that makes him the highest-paid bench boss in league history. The announcement was made Wednesday morning by Rangers President and General Manager Chris Drury, who expressed strong confidence in Sullivan’s ability to lead the franchise to championship success.

“We are certainly thrilled to welcome Mike Sullivan to New York,” said Drury during the press conference at Madison Square Garden. “His experience, his leadership, and his proven ability to win at the highest level make him the ideal choice to guide our team into a new era.”

Sullivan, 57, agreed to a six-year contract reportedly worth over $36 million, eclipsing the previous high-water mark for NHL coaching salaries. The deal underscores the Rangers’ all-in approach to capturing their first Stanley Cup since 1994, and signals the organization’s commitment to pairing its young, talented roster with elite leadership behind the bench.

Sullivan, who most recently served as head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, brings with him a strong résumé that includes back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017. Known for his structured systems, attention to detail, and ability to adapt to evolving game trends, Sullivan is widely respected throughout the league.

“I’m honored and energized to be joining one of the most iconic franchises in all of sports,” said Sullivan in a prepared statement. “The Rangers have a talented core, passionate fans, and a vision for long-term success. I can’t wait to get to work.”

Sullivan replaces Peter Laviolette, who parted ways with the Rangers following their disappointing Eastern Conference Final exit earlier this spring. Despite a strong regular season, the Rangers fell short of expectations, leading management to seek a new direction with a coach who has a track record of postseason success.

Drury emphasized that the decision to pursue Sullivan was both strategic and swift. “We were looking for a coach who could immediately command the room, develop our younger players, and push our veterans to a championship level. Mike checked every box — and then some.”

The Rangers boast a roster that includes stars like Artemi Panarin, Adam Fox, Igor Shesterkin, and a host of promising young talent such as Alexis Lafrenière and Kaapo Kakko. The hope is that Sullivan’s winning pedigree can bring out the best in the group and push them over the playoff hump.

Reactions across the NHL were immediate, with analysts noting that the Rangers’ aggressive investment reflects the increasing value teams place on coaching excellence in a tightly contested league. “This is a statement move,” said one league insider. “The Rangers are going for it.”

As the Blueshirts look toward training camp in September, all eyes will be on Sullivan to see how quickly he can implement his systems and establish a winning culture. But for now, the message from the front office is clear.

“Mike’s here to win,” said Drury. “And so are we.”