With Mike Sullivan now behind the New York Rangers bench, the team may look to free agency to bring in familiar faces who have thrived under his coaching. Sullivan, widely respected across the NHL and fresh off leading Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off, is known for maximizing his players’ potential. As the Rangers face an offseason with potential roster changes, players with past experience under Sullivan may be on their radar.
This article kicks off a two-part series focusing on unrestricted free agents who previously played for Sullivan and could be viable additions for the Rangers.
Matt Grzelcyk: A Logical Fit
Matt Grzelcyk stands out as a natural candidate. The American defenseman came through the U.S. National Development Program, overlapping with J.T. Miller, and later played at Boston University alongside Jack Eichel a name reportedly high on the Rangers’ wish list if he becomes available.
Grzelcyk was selected by the Bruins in the third round of the 2012 NHL Draft and carved out a solid six-season career in Boston. Known for his skating, puck movement, and ability to contribute in multiple roles, he’s somewhat of a “what-could-have-been” version of Zac Jones if Jones had received regular development and playing time.
His 5-foot-9 stature could be a sticking point for the Rangers, who seem to be favoring bigger bodies on defense. While he brings some grit, his size doesn’t align perfectly with New York’s current blueprint. Still, the argument can be made that Grzelcyk’s skill set outweighs his size concerns—especially when compared to larger, less mobile defensemen like Carson Soucy.
After a rough final season with Boston, Grzelcyk bounced back under Sullivan in Pittsburgh, nearly hitting a half-point-per-game pace. That recent resurgence under Sullivan could make him an appealing target for Rangers GM Chris Drury.
In a free agent market lacking depth on the blue line aside from players like Vladislav Gavrikov and Ivan Provorov Grzelcyk could be one of the most cost-effective and system-compatible options available. If the price is right, he might slot in seamlessly into the Rangers’ top four, perhaps even alongside Adam Fox on the top pair.
