Kyle Dubas Addresses Sidney Crosby's Future with the Penguins Amid Major Changes

Mike Sullivan's nearly 10-year run as head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins has come to an end.

The team announced Monday it was parting ways with the two-time Stanley Cup champion coach, little more than a week after missing the playoffs for a third season in a row.

Sullivan, the franchise's winningest coach with 409 wins, led Pittsburgh to championships in 2016 and 2017.

Sullivan had two years left on the contract extension he signed in 2022 and had indicated he wished to stay on as the team rebuilds around Sidney Crosby.

General manager Kyle Dubas said the decision to split wasn't a simple one, saying that while Sullivan is an "elite-level" coach, the organization felt a change was necessary.

Only a week ago, Dubas said he and Sullivan would meet to ensure their visions for the team's future were aligned. Instead, the Penguins chose a different direction.

Dubas also alleviated any concerns that Crosby would consider leaving Pittsburgh now that Sullivan is no longer there.

He made it a point to note in his press conference today that he has no doubts about Crosby's dedication, and that the superstar is still fully invested in the Penguins' future.

Sullivan, hired in December 2015 to replace Mike Johnston, brought a sharp, direct style that, along with key roster moves by then-GM Jim Rutherford, helped Pittsburgh become the first team in nearly two decades to win back-to-back Cups.

He built strong relationships with Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang, praising their leadership throughout the Penguins' remarkable 16-year playoff streak.