In the fast-paced world of hockey, it’s always a question of when, not if, a coach will face the chopping block. Mike Sullivan, the long-time head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, finds himself in the hot seat as the team faces a streak of disappointing seasons.
Sullivan, now in his 11th season with the Penguins, has had a rollercoaster ride with the team. After taking over from the fired Mike Johnston, Sullivan led the Penguins to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017. However, in recent years, the team has struggled to find their form, missing the playoffs two years in a row.
With an aging core and a lack of recent success, questions are being raised about Sullivan’s future with the team. Despite signing a contract extension through the 2026-2027 season, there are no guarantees in the world of coaching. As one insider put it, “During all points of the season and year, there is constant hockey coaching turmoil.”
Speculation is rife about who could take over if Sullivan is shown the door. One name that has been mentioned is Gerard Gallant, former coach of the New York Rangers. Gallant has an impressive track record, leading the Vegas Golden Knights to the Stanley Cup Final in their inaugural season. Another possibility is Assistant Coach David Quinn, who has been tasked with reviving the team’s defense and powerplay.
As the pressure mounts on Sullivan, the hockey world waits with bated breath to see if a change is on the horizon for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Only time will tell if Sullivan will lead the team to playoff success once again, or if a new face will take the helm in Pittsburgh.