Mike Sullivan Absent from Rangers’ Bench for Personal Reasons
New York Rangers coach Mike Sullivan was unable to attend Sunday night’s game against Detroit due to personal matters. The absence of Sullivan was announced by the team early that same day. No further details were provided regarding this. Instead, assistants David Quinn and Joe Sacco ran the bench during the Rangers’ 2-1 loss to the Red Wings.Quinn explained that both he and Sacco essentially maintained their usual roles when sharing responsibilities on the bench. Quinn took care of the defensive combinations, while Sacco handled the offensive lines.I have no news at this time. Obviously, from the coaches to the players and the organization, we are certainly thinking of Mike and his family. It’s never an easy situation when you have to take care of your family.
David Quinn
Sullivan is in his first season as the Rangers’ head coach. Quinn held that role for three seasons, from 2018 to 2021, before being fired and replaced by Gerard Gallant. Gallant was replaced by Peter Laviolette in 2023, and Laviolette was fired after the Rangers failed to qualify for the playoffs last season. Quinn coached San Jose from 2022 to 2024 and worked on Sullivan’s staff in Pittsburgh last season before returning to New York with him. Quinn is also scheduled to serve as Sullivan’s assistant for the United States in the upcoming Olympic Games. Quinn praised Rangers goalie Jonathan Quick, who made 40 saves in the loss, as the Rangers fell to 1-7-1 at home this season. New York is 9-1-1 on the road.There weren’t really many changes. It was a fluid situation.
David Quinn
Obviously, Quickie was incredible tonight. He made some huge saves. He was our best penalty killer.
David Quinn
