It's Sullivan's job to ensure that the best players play meaning Sullivan is icing the line up that he feels gives the team the best chance to win. I think Rudwedel has been decent but not at the expense of Cole. Rudwedel over a Streit or Hainsey, I could see that. Cole? I can't. I didn't watch him like a hawk or anything but I was never aware of any consistently bad play that would warrant him getting scratched. In fact, I thought he's been a damn good and dependable dman for us. He's not a top end talent, but the talent he does bring is done so consistently. He's one of the few guys on the team that can lay a hit too.
One thing that I am thinking though is that I do think Rudwedel may be a better skater. With Maatta, Cole, and Hunwick you have half the defense that is not known for their smooth skating. Dumoulin is boarderline so that leaves Schultz and Letang and I think it's safe to say that both have struggled a little bit. So wanting to balance things out and put a better skater in place, I could see that. I would almost rather run 7D and 11 forwards.
Right? Like I said, he's one that's brought a consistent game, skill level, and work ethic to every game. Some of those other guys...well...
At least you picked a good one to go out on! Have fun!