New York Rangers Insider Calls Bluff on Mike Sullivan’s Optimism

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NEWARK, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 21: Head coach Mike Sullivan of the New York Rangers handles bench duties during the game against the New Jersey Devils in preseason action at the Prudential Center on September 21, 2025 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

The New York Rangers have been knocked down by obstacle after obstacle this season.

Despite their persistent woes, head coach Mike Sullivan has kept his composure and optimism.

This is an unspoken rule of the job, but what’s really behind the confidence?

Rangers Insider Questions Sullivan’s Outlook

Vincent Z. Mercogliano of The Athletic isn’t so sure Sullivan is truly feeling the high level of optimism he’s presenting.

In reference to Pavel Dorofeyev’s underwhelming performance so far, Mercogliano wrote, “Sullivan has publicly taken the optimistic stance, but his actions suggest he’s dissatisfied.”

He added, “He’s removed Dorofeyev from the top power-play unit on multiple occasions and recently dropped him to a third line that’s light on playmakers. It could yield a motivated response, but it could just as easily backfire.”

Now, Sullivan has faced criticism throughout the season, but his goaltending decisions faced the most heat.

However, considering the cards he’s been dealt, particularly with Igor Shesterkin‘s injury, he’s been faring quite well.

“Sullivan earned some criticism with Monday’s dubious handling of the goalies, but he’s mostly done an admirable job of repairing a fractured culture and forging a team identity,” Mercogliano explained.