Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images [https://deweb-519a7.b-cdn.net/post-images/cb9fbb82-c275-4691-9998-778b9c1a480c.jpeg] Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images The New York Rangers may already have a top coaching candidate in mind with Peter Laviolette officially out of the picture. While Rangers president and general manager Chris Drury said he’s open to hiring a first-time head coach if the fit is right, he reportedly prefers someone with experience according to Vince Z. Mercogliano of USA Today. [https://x.com/vzmercogliano/status/1914001643055497508] Pittsburgh Penguins coach Mike Sullivan has already emerged as a potential target for Drury. “The guy that I believe that Drury is targeting No. 1 on his list is not technically available, that would be Mike Sullivan, the two-time Stanley Cup winning coach from the Pittsburgh Penguins,” Mercogliano said. [https://x.com/vzmercogliano/status/1914001643055497508] “He has two years remaining on his deal with Pittsburgh and said to the media in Pittsburgh on Friday that he plans on continuing to coach the Penguins. “I’ve heard that there could be some wiggle room there. I know the Rangers are waiting to find out if there is any chance of prying him away. I do believe Drury thinks highly of Sullivan. They have connections through USA Hockey.” Pittsburgh’s struggles over the past couple of seasons have led to some rumblings about Sullivan’s future with the team and his potential departure. However, when addressing the media after the season on Friday, Sullivan made clear that he intends to remain with the Penguins. “My intentions are to be the head coach moving forward,” Sullivan said. Things could obviously change and words are just words, but given Sullivan’s contract situation and his recent statements, prying him away from his current situation may be difficult.
