Mike Sullivan Absent from Rangers’ Bench for Personal Reasons
New York Rangers coach Mike Sullivan was unable to coach Sunday night’s game against Detroit due to personal matters. The news of his absence was communicated by the team during the day, without offering additional details. Instead, assistants David Quinn and Joe Sacco were in charge of leading the team during the 2-1 defeat against the Red Wings.Quinn explained that he and Sacco maintained their usual roles, sharing responsibilities on the bench. Quinn took care of the defensive alignments, 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 thinking of Mike and his family. It’s never an easy situation when you have to take care of the family.
David Quinn
Sullivan is in his first season as the Rangers’ head coach. Quinn, for his part, held that position for three seasons, from 2018 to 2021, before being fired and replaced by Gerard Gallant. Gallant was replaced by Peter Laviolette in 2023, who in turn was relieved after the Rangers failed to qualify for the playoffs last season. Quinn coached San Jose from 2022 to 2024 and was part of Sullivan’s coaching 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 a 1-7-1 home record this season. On the road, New York has a 9-1-1 record.There weren’t really many changes. It was a fluid situation.
David Quinn
Obviously, Quickie was incredible tonight. He made huge saves. He was our best penalty specialist.
David Quinn
