The Toronto Maple Leafs have brought back a familiar face, announcing the return of Steve Sullivan as an assistant coach for the Toronto Marlies under head coach John Gruden.
Sullivan’s addition to the Marlies coaching staff comes as a replacement for Rich Clune, who recently accepted a coaching position in the NHL with the Anaheim Ducks. Clune, who served as an assistant coach with the Marlies last season after working in player development for the Leafs, had stepped in after former assistant Eric Wellwood went on medical leave in October and did not return to the team. Wellwood’s departure appears to be permanent, as he is no longer listed as part of the Marlies organization.
Sullivan brings a wealth of experience to the Marlies, having spent four years as an assistant general manager for the Arizona Coyotes, where he managed their AHL affiliate, the Tucson Roadrunners. Before that, he was a key figure in the Coyotes’ development department, serving as director during the 2016-17 season. The 50-year-old’s return to Toronto is a significant boost for the organization, given his extensive background in both coaching and player development.
During his playing career, Sullivan was part of the Maple Leafs organization for parts of four seasons, appearing in 154 games and recording 35 goals and 50 assists for 85 points between 1997 and 1999. He also had stints with the Nashville Predators, Chicago Blackhawks, New Jersey Devils, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Phoenix Coyotes. Sullivan is perhaps best remembered for being part of the trade that sent Doug Gilmour to New Jersey, along with Jason Smith and Alyn McCauley.
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