The Pittsburgh Penguins and head coach Mike Sullivan mutually agreed to part ways after 10 seasons, the team announced Monday.
Sullivan led Pittsburgh to Stanley Cups in his first two years with the organization, but the club has missed the playoffs in three consecutive seasons.
"On behalf of Fenway Sports Group and the Penguins organization, I would like to thank Mike Sullivan for his unwavering commitment and loyalty to the team and city of Pittsburgh over the past decade," general manager Kyle Dubas said in a statement.
"This was not a decision that was taken lightly, but as we continue to navigate the Penguins through this transitional period, we felt it was the best course forward for all involved."
Dubas said he consulted captain Sidney Crosby about the decision Sunday, explaining he needed to do what's best for the team, according to The Athletic's Rob Rossi. Dubas also said he doesn't think the coaching change will impact Crosby's desire to remain with the Penguins after the veteran signed a two-year extension last September.
Sullivan "did an amazing job over the last 10 years here with his preparation and commitment to winning," Crosby wrote in an email, according to The Athletic's Josh Yohe. "Personally, he pushed me to be better every day, and I learned a lot from him. We shared some great memories together, and I am grateful for his time here and everything he did for us."
Sullivan had two years remaining on his contract. He will be one of the most coveted free-agent coaches this offseason.
The Boston Bruins, New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers, Chicago Blackhawks, Anaheim Ducks, and Seattle Kraken are all in the market for a new coach.
Sullivan amassed a 409-255-89 record with the Penguins, though this past season was the club's worst under his guidance. Pittsburgh made the playoffs in five consecutive years after winning the Cup in 2017 but only won one series.
Sullivan coached the United States in February's 4 Nations Face-Off and will have the same role for next year's Olympics in Italy.
