In the 2002–03 season, Sullivan began working as an assistant coach for the Boston Bruins. After serving as the Bruins’ head coach for two more seasons, he moved on to work as an assistant coach for the Vancouver Canucks, Tampa Bay Lightning, and New York Rangers. When he was promoted to the NHL midseason in 2015–16, he was head coach of Wilkes-Barre, Pittsburgh’s AHL affiliate. He succeeded Mike Johnston as head coach. Sullivan went on to win the Stanley Cup in his replacement season as Penguins head coach in 2016–17.

Since winning consecutive titles, the Penguins have had severe postseason difficulties. They have failed to advance past the first round on several occasions and have now missed the playoffs for two years in a row. With a core that includes late-30s players Kris Letang, Evgeni Malkin, and Sidney Crosby, the Penguins are in a difficult situation. It is possible to go in a different direction, and many are curious if Sullivan will stay in charge during any prospective retooling or rebuilding. One insider claims that it is not out of the question to think that Sullivan might be coaching for a different team come football season.

It is Not Clear What Sullivan Is Up To In Pittsburgh

In the most recent episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet revealed that Sullivan’s status with the team is uncertain.

It appeared inevitable that Sullivan would take the helm in Pittsburgh going forward as head coach and guide the team through this new stage. But it appears like there might be a situation where teams are curious to find out where Pittsburgh stands and if Sullivan is a part of that future.

Friedman says that if Sullivan were to leave the Penguins, a lot of teams would be interested in his services. Kyle Dubas took over as general manager during the offseason, but it is unclear how he views the team right now. It is also possible that Sullivan will decide it is time for the team to find a new leader and leave to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

Even so, Sullivan’s experience in a winning culture in Pittsburgh makes him an intriguing addition to a team that hopes to win the Cup. There is also the very real chance that the Penguins decided to hang onto Sullivan in an effort to maintain their core and compete. Some believe that keeping him on the team makes sense, especially with players like Crosby still there. Others felt that Sullivan’s departure would allow them to usher in a new era in the Steel City, which most definitely needs one.