Rangers' Mike Sullivan Fortifies Coaching Team with Bruins' Joe Sacco

Boston, USA - In the ever-shifting landscape of the NHL, the New York Rangers are making headlines as they build a new coaching staff ahead of the 2025-26 season. With the scars of missing the playoffs still fresh from the previous season, they’re putting their faith in Mike Sullivan, a seasoned coach well-acquainted with the intricacies of the game. Having taken over after the dismissal of Peter Laviolette, Sullivan is now assembling a familiar ensemble to ensure a successful rebound.

Reports from Sportskeeda indicate that Joe Sacco, who served as the interim coach for the Boston Bruins, is set to join Sullivan’s staff. Sacco tallied a record of 25-30-7 after stepping in mid-season, demonstrating resilience amidst challenging circumstances. His experience as an assistant coach with the Bruins since 2014 lays a solid foundation for his new role.

The New Additions

Joining Sacco on this coaching journey are two notable figures: David Quinn and Ty Hennes. Quinn, who previously held the reins of the Rangers from 2018 to 2021, brings a wealth of familiarity back to Manhattan. Although his earlier tenure saw limited playoff success, Quinn’s knowledge of the team could play a pivotal role in their resurgence next season. He recently wrapped up his stint with the San Jose Sharks, which proved to be less than fruitful.

On the other hand, Hennes is a face from Sullivan’s past in Pittsburgh, where he began as a skills coach and eventually took on the assistant coach title in 2022. The bond he shares with Sullivan could foster a seamless working relationship, crucial for steering the Rangers towards greater heights. As Sullivan himself noted, “it’s about doing the right things on the ice,” a philosophy that legendary Boston University coach Jack Parker echoes.

Coaching Carousel Comes to a Halt

This season’s coaching changes have been extensive across the NHL, with Sporting News reporting that all eight teams needing new head coaches have filled their vacancies. Alongside Sullivan at the Rangers, Marco Sturm has stepped in for the Boston Bruins, replacing Jim Montgomery, who was dismissed after a rocky start to the season.

Sullivan’s coaching resume is certainly notable, having led the Pittsburgh Penguins for a decade before taking the reins at the Rangers with a record of 479-311-112. His success included back-to-back Stanley Cup championships, a testament to his ability to lead teams through tumultuous times and into victory.

As the Rangers prepare for the upcoming season, the blend of seasoned coaches and fresh perspectives promises an exciting revival. Can they harness the potential of their newly formed staff and make strides towards playoff contention? Only time will tell, but with the right tactics and team cohesion, there’s definitely something to be said for New York’s chances in the near future.