If I understand correctly, Sullivan has already been given the case. He could make a splash by issuing a decision. His justification, even if he’s overturned, would be the deal between Flynn and Mueller.
And a splash is all the media and those susceptible to being sued would want.
Sullivan has jurisdiction but the writ can take that away. He’s ordered to explain in a short time (9 days now) and then he’s pulled off the case.
If he rules which he won’t as there’s not enough time, whatever ruling will be quickly overturned as if it never happened. Flynn will still be able to sue those who broke the law in wrongfully prosecuting him. Furthermore, Wray just today opened an investigation into how the Flynn case was handled. That signals a criminal prosecution lies ahead.
The problem Sullivan has is Flynn has the goods on both Hillary and Obama, so his gag order must stay in place until the election when vote fraud will be ratcheted up like never before.
Sullivan is in the crossfire. He’s doing what he’s told.