New York Rangers head coach Mike Sullivan. The Journal News-Imagn Images

Rangers' top prospect gets confusing statement from coach Mike Sullivan

By Manuel Meza | Last updated Sep 24, 2025 7:15 PM ET

The New York Rangers have started their preseason, and coach Mike Sullivan made a confusing statement about a top prospect after the team's 5-4 overtime loss to the Boston Bruins on Tuesday.

Gabe Perreault was important again, scoring a goal. After the game, Sullivan was questioned about the young winger's role. Although he praised him, he did not make it clear if Perreault will play in the NHL or the AHL this season.

"I don’t think he needs to be a top-six player," Sullivan said , according to New York Post reporter Mollie Walker. "I think it’s important that he gets minutes and that he plays for his overall development, which would in turn be best for the New York Rangers. Whether that takes place in New York or in Hartford is yet to be determined."

#NYR coach Mike Sullivan says Gabe Perreault "has NHL talent" and is "an NHL player in the making."

On whether he thinks No. 94 has to play in top 6 or if he's comfortable with him in a 3/4 line role: "I don't think he needs to be a top six player. I think it's important that he…
— Mollie Walker (@MollieeWalkerr) September 24, 2025

Rangers' Gabe Perreault could go to the AHL, but NHL call-up won't be long

Perreault, 20, was selected 23rd overall in the 2023 Draft. Before joining the Rangers, he had a standout stint with the USNTDP and Boston College, breaking points records and helping Team USA win two gold medals.

The preseason has just begun, but the young forward has already scored in his first two games, showing he is ready to make an immediate impact. Although playing in the AHL would not halt his progress, Perreault already has NHL experience, having played five games last season, enough to demonstrate his game IQ despite his age.

However, Perreault still must adapt to the physical pace of the elite level. This preseason, he has worked on increasing muscle mass and improving his skating, two fundamental aspects.

Even with Chris Kreider's departure, the Rangers' top-six seems defined with Vincent Trocheck, J.T. Miller, Artemi Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, Alexis Lafreniere and Will Cuylle. This factor influences Sullivan's indecision to give him a spot on the first team or send him to Hartford.

Perreault has an entry-level contract, giving him the flexibility to alternate between the NHL and AHL as needed, to maintain his progress and playing time. It would not be a surprise to see the 20-year-old forward playing at the highest level midway through the season.

The regular season starts on Oct. 7, so Perreault has time to make a difference in training camp and convince Sullivan he is ready.

Manuel Meza

Manuel Meza is a sports journalist specializing in soccer (MLS, Liga MX, European leagues) and the NHL. With a writing career launched in 2020, he has contributed to industry leaders like Sports Illustrated, GRV Media, and Roundtable Sports. He is dedicated to providing news and analysis for Yardbarker's audience.

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