Joe’s Reaction of the Week (Snark’s Version): Rangers Success Requires Mike Sullivan to Evolve

Mike Sullivan has not coached in an NHL playoff game since May 15, 2022, when his Pittsburgh Penguins lost Game 7 of the first round to the New York Rangers. Sullivan subsequently missed the postseason in his final three campaigns with Pittsburgh before taking over as head coach of the Rangers. In his first season leading New York, the team compiled a 34-39-9 record, earned 77 points, and finished last in the Eastern Conference.

While Sullivan's inaugural Rangers squad maintained defensive structure by conceding 249 goals, the offense produced only 235 goals. The analysis notes that achieving future success will require Sullivan to evolve his tactical system by increasing pace with the puck and generating sustained offensive pressure without discarding established defensive habits.