Context:

Mike Sullivan, newly appointed as the New York Rangers coach, emphasizes communication as his top priority in revitalizing a team that failed to make the playoffs after winning the Presidents' Trophy. Having spoken with every player on the roster, Sullivan acknowledges the leadership and character within the team, aiming to improve their performance, particularly in power play and defense. With a history as an assistant coach for the Rangers and experience leading the Pittsburgh Penguins to two Stanley Cup victories, Sullivan brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. His strategy includes nurturing young talents like Brennan Othmann and Gabe Perreault, ensuring each player earns their opportunities. Chris Drury, the team's president and general manager, expressed strong support for Sullivan, highlighting the urgency and importance of this new coaching chapter for the Rangers.

Dive Deeper:

• Mike Sullivan, taking the helm as the New York Rangers' coach, is focusing on fostering communication within the team, which struggled last season despite formerly winning the Presidents' Trophy.

• In his introductory press conference, Sullivan shared that he has already spoken with every player, recognizing the team's leadership and character as crucial elements for success.

• Sullivan, who has a successful coaching background with the Pittsburgh Penguins, aims to improve the Rangers' power play and defensive strategies, capitalizing on the skills of top players like Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Adam Fox.

• His previous experience with the Rangers as an assistant coach and collaborations with team president Chris Drury provide a strong foundation for his new role.

• Sullivan plans to develop young players such as Brennan Othmann and Gabe Perreault, emphasizing the importance of earning opportunities and tailoring development to individual player needs.

• Chris Drury, the Rangers' president and general manager, extended his contract last month and expresses confidence in Sullivan's potential to turn the team's fortunes around.

• Drury highlighted the proactive pursuit of Sullivan once he became available, underscoring the team's commitment to improvement and the challenges ahead.