Mike Sullivan’s Emotional Return to Pittsburgh
New York Rangers coach Mike Sullivan experienced an emotional return to Pittsburgh, where he was honored with a video recognizing his achievements with the Penguins. Sullivan, who coached the Penguins for ten seasons, including two Stanley Cup championships, expressed his gratitude for the recognition and the successes achieved during his time in Pittsburgh.The tribute video was shown during the first timeout, with Sullivan receiving a standing ovation. Mika Zibanejad scored a shorthanded goal shortly after the video, giving the Rangers a lead they maintained. Sullivan, the only U.S.-born coach to win at least two Stanley Cups, leads Pittsburgh’s history with 409 wins in 753 games.“It means a lot. I’m grateful for everything we accomplished (in Pittsburgh) during my time,” Sullivan said after New York’s 6-1 victory in Pittsburgh on Saturday.
Mike Sullivan
The coach had already faced the Penguins, losing in the season opener. However, he was impressed by his team’s response in the victory against the same Pittsburgh team.“I am very grateful to the group of players from those years who performed the way they did and who allowed us to have the success we had,” Sullivan commented. “When you see a tribute like that, for which I am very grateful to the Penguins, they didn’t have to do it, it brings a flood of emotions.”
Mike Sullivan
Sullivan’s departure from the Penguins came after Pittsburgh failed to qualify for the playoffs for the third consecutive season. Now, Sullivan seeks to lead the Rangers to the top. “I’m excited about the group of players we have in New York,” Sullivan said. “I’ve enjoyed the time I’ve had to work with them so far, we have a lot of enthusiasm on our team right now and we’re excited about what we can do in the future.”“They played a much more determined game during the last 40 minutes,” Sullivan said. “I think that shows what we are capable of when we play with that focus and determination.”
Mike Sullivan
