Mike Sullivan Set to Reunite with John Tortorella on Rangers’ Coaching Staff

New York, NY – Just over a month after being fired by the Philadelphia Flyers, John Tortorella has reportedly found a new home in the NHL with the New York Rangers. ESPN’s Emily Kaplan confirmed that the veteran coach is expected to join the Rangers as they seek to revitalize their roster.

The exact role for Tortorella remains unclear, but speculation suggests he could serve as an assistant coach to Mike Sullivan, who is in advanced talks to become the Rangers’ head coach. Sullivan recently parted ways with the Pittsburgh Penguins after a decade, during which he won two Stanley Cups.

Tortorella and Sullivan share a long history, having previously worked together when Sullivan was Tortorella’s assistant with the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Rangers. Their successful partnership resulted in a 51-win season for the Rangers in 2011-12, reaching the Eastern Conference Final.

With the Rangers in need of a strong voice to lead the team, the reunion of Tortorella and Sullivan may provide the necessary spark. Sullivan is poised to become the 38th head coach in Rangers’ history, and sources suggest he could receive one of the richest contracts in NHL coaching history.

Adding to the intrigue, Tortorella’s potential return to the Rangers would mark his third tenure with the organization. His prior experience includes a stint as the head coach from 2009 to 2013, where he recorded 171 wins, placing him fifth in franchise history.

The Rangers are eager to finalize Sullivan’s appointment, as well as Tortorella’s role, as they look to turn the page on a challenging season. Tensions within the Flyers might have included conflicts that drove Tortorella’s exit, prompting a fresh start in New York.

As talks continue, fans eagerly await confirmation of these developments and the chance to see how these seasoned coaches can transform the Rangers’ fortunes.