Doesn't mean he can't use the same system better. Sullivans issues is adaptable in game. He doesn't adjust and doesn't trust players allowing them to develop.
Look at McG the two halves of his season are night and day. MacDonald seems to be allowing the players to focus on strengths and not forcing them to change the games.
All of Broz, Hayes, Pono, McG and Koivunen are having good years. That alone says a lot about him as a coach to have all the turn over but get this team winning.
Ya you can pump the brakes on him but I would 100% take him over sullivan right now still lol. I would take a potato over Sullivan.
All of Broz, Hayes, Pono, McG, and Koivunen are highly skilled. Every single one, except for Hayes, is an early round draft pick. Koivunen, McGroarty, and Broz had high levels of success in college/Europe. Ponomarev scored 22 goals in the AHL two years ago.
I would be careful attributing their success - which they've had before - to any coach.
I'd also be careful in suggesting MacDonald can adapt in game. We haven't seen him in a critical situation in the AHL yet. Again, he's had ECHL and USHL success, but there are big talent gaps at times in those leagues. It's tougher in the AHL. Let's see how he does in the playoffs.
If the Pens replace Sullivan - and they should - they should prioritize innovation and creativity alongside sustained success.
Todd Nelson in Hershey is what MacDonald should aspire to be - innovative offense (especially on the power play), responsible defense, ability to develop players for the NHL while helping fringe AHL/NHL players thrive to foster a winning culture, and success in the AHL playoffs.