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2h ago

Penguins and Mike Sullivan Part Ways After Decade of Leadership

The two-time Stanley Cup-winning coach departs as Pittsburgh begins its search for a new head coach following three consecutive missed playoffs.

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Pittsburgh Penguins head coach Mike Sullivan talks with referee Brandon Schrader during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Washington Capitals in Pittsburgh, Thursday, April 17, 2025. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Overview

  • Mike Sullivan, the winningest coach in Penguins history with 409 victories, exits after leading the team to back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2016 and 2017.
  • The decision follows Pittsburgh's third straight playoff absence, marking a period of decline for the aging core led by Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang.
  • General Manager Kyle Dubas emphasized the need for a new direction as the franchise navigates a transitional phase, with a head coach search already underway.
  • Speculation has begun about Sullivan's potential next roles, with the Boston Bruins and New York Rangers rumored to be interested in his services.
  • Sullivan's availability is expected to influence the NHL coaching market, with analysts suggesting his next contract could set a new salary benchmark exceeding $7 million per season.