Mike Sullivan's five-year deal made him highest-paid coach in NHL History

Mike Sullivan didn't remain unemployed for long. Just four days after departing the Pittsburgh Penguins , the two-time Stanley Cup winner was signed by the New York Rangers . Sullivan is one of the all-time great coaches in the NHL, and this says everything about the amount of respect he has across the league. With him now officially headed for New York, other coaches and hockey leaders are dissecting why Sullivan is so respected.

Higher-ups discussed why Mike Sullivan stands out truly exceptional
The Athletic Rangers reporter Arthur Staple interviewed renowned NHL voices on Sullivan's coaching style. Prior general manager of Penguins Jim Rutherford praised Sullivan for believing in prospects.

In his opinion, Sullivan brought up the likes of Conor Sheary, Bryan Rust, Tommy Kuhnhackl, and Matt Murray from the AHL and they spearheaded the Penguins to a Cup win. Rutherford went on to say that Sullivan always demands things done the proper way and knows how to ensure each player is prepared to excel.

Back in the Big Apple 🍎

Mike Sullivan heads back to his former stomping grounds and joins the New York Rangers as their 38th head coach in franchise history.

Reportedly, the deal is set to make Sullivan the highest-paid coach in league history.#NYR | #NHL pic.twitter.com/GVzE9tHNew

— Maher Media (@MaherMediaCo) May 2, 2025

Tampa Bay Lightning coach Jon Cooper also was full of praise. He mentioned great coaches push superstar players to work hard even after years. That's what Sullivan did in Pittsburgh with superstars Crosby and Malkin. Cooper described him as a "no-nonsense" coach who expects effort out of everyone.


John Hynes, another NHL head coach, referred to Sullivan as "the whole package." He described Sullivan as being extremely well-prepared, listening to various perspectives, and concentrating on what truly matters. Hynes stated Sullivan excels at teaching, inspiring, and leading a locker room and that it's wonderful to watch him work.

Mike Sullivan's championship philosophy
Mike Sullivan is now going to be the highest-paid coach in the history of the NHL with a five-year contract from the Rangers. That is how much the team has faith in his potential to guide them to a championship.


At his initial New York press conference, Sullivan expressed clearly what type of team he is looking to construct. "As we all know, talent alone doesn't win championships. Teams win championships." This brief but powerful statement reveals his faith in teamwork rather than individual talent.


In Pittsburgh, there were some who believed it was an easy task to coach Crosby and Malkin. But when Sullivan became the coach, the team was in trouble. He turned things around quickly and led them to win the Cup that same year. His talent for bringing a group together and getting the best out of each player is what makes him unique.


Now, the Rangers are praying Sullivan will bring the same winning culture to New York. With a deep and talented team and an astute coach, the fans can't wait to see what occurs next.


Also Read: NHL’s Most Expensive Coach: Mike Sullivan Sets Record With Highest Annual Salary In League History