The Rangers players in front of Sullivan cleared out of the way as the video was playing, so Sullivan could have his moment and be recognized. He was shown on the videoboard at the end of the tribute and was met with a standing ovation from the fans in attendance, a number of whom have signs welcoming the two-time Stanley Cup-winning coach back to Pittsburgh.
Sullivan said afterward that he was 'emotional' during the tribute.
"You know, it means a lot," he said. "I'm grateful for everything that we accomplished here during my time. I'm grateful for the opportunity to coach here in Pittsburgh for 10 years. And I'm so grateful to the group of players over those years that performed the way they did, that allowed us to have the success that we had. So when you watch a tribute like that, which I was very appreciative of -- the Penguins, they didn't have to do that -- it brings back up a flood of emotions."
THE ASYLUM
Sullivan 'appreciative' of reception from team, fans
Mike Sullivan wasn't sure this morning what his emotions would be when the Penguins played his tribute video during the first TV timeout on Saturday.
Sullivan, always stoic, was clearly touched by the production the Penguins put together and the fan reception that followed:
The Rangers players in front of Sullivan cleared out of the way as the video was playing, so Sullivan could have his moment and be recognized. He was shown on the videoboard at the end of the tribute and was met with a standing ovation from the fans in attendance, a number of whom have signs welcoming the two-time Stanley Cup-winning coach back to Pittsburgh.
Sullivan said afterward that he was 'emotional' during the tribute.
"You know, it means a lot," he said. "I'm grateful for everything that we accomplished here during my time. I'm grateful for the opportunity to coach here in Pittsburgh for 10 years. And I'm so grateful to the group of players over those years that performed the way they did, that allowed us to have the success that we had. So when you watch a tribute like that, which I was very appreciative of -- the Penguins, they didn't have to do that -- it brings back up a flood of emotions."
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