Sounds like ex-Canucks coach Tocchet has almost made up his mind
It sounds like Rick Tocchet is about to make a decision.
The 61-year-old coach has been a free agent ever since saying “thanks, but no thanks” to the Vancouver Canucks two weeks ago. He spent time on the TNT panel over the weekend as he reportedly weighs his options, but it doesn’t sound like a return to television is in the cards.
As the most highly sought-after coach available, Tocchet has options.
Three top contenders have emerged for Tocchet’s services, per a report from TSN’s Darren Dreger, with the Philadelphia Flyers, Boston Bruins, and Seattle Kraken in the running.
Strong indications this week Rick Tocchet will soon land another NHL head coaching job. Philly, Boston, Seattle believed to be among the top contenders. The Flyers want to be aggressive. Good fit.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) May 13, 2025
Dreger notes the Flyers want to be “aggressive.” Philadelphia is also the expected landing spot per Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.
“Until Philadelphia goes in a different direction, that’s my pick,” Friedman said during an NHL Network interview.
People have connected the dots between the Flyers and Tocchet ever since John Tortorella was fired in March. Tocchet was a beloved player in Philadelphia and is a former teammate of both Flyers president of hockey operations Keith Jones and GM Daniel Briere.
Meanwhile in Vancouver, it appears Manny Malhotra has the inside track on being named the next Canucks head coach. He, along with Adam Foote, are reportedly drawing the most interest.