In introducing Mike Sullivan as the 38th head coach in franchise history Thursday, Rangers president and general manager Chris Drury acknowledged in his opening remarks his immediate pursuit of the veteran coach when he became available. The well-documented relationship between the two former NHL forwards presumably prompted Drury to do so.

Newly hired New York Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan made communication his No. 1 priority upon arrival. Sullivan revealed during his introductory press conference on Thursday that he has already spoken directly to every player on the roster, making that his first act as the leader of the Rangers' bench.

Sullivan is already at work building relationships with Rangers players, and his relationship with GM Chris Drury is strong.