Tocchet explains why he's choosing to leave Vancouver Canucks
What a difference a year makes.
Rick Tocchet seemingly could do no wrong during the 2023-24 season, leading the Vancouver Canucks to one of their most successful seasons of all-time. The Canucks were the surprise of the NHL, winning the Pacific Division with a 109-point season and pushing the heavily favoured Edmonton Oilers to Game 7 in the second round.
That team rejuvenated the fanbase in Vancouver.
But now?
After one of the most dysfunctional seasons in team history, the Canucks have announced that Tocchet won’t be back. But it wasn’t management’s choice, it’s Tocchet who is opting to leave.
In a press release, the 61-year-old bench boss explained why.
“I’m choosing to move on from the Vancouver Canucks,” Tocchet said. “Family is a priority, and with my contract lapsing, this becomes the opportune time. While I don’t know where I’m headed, or exactly how this will play out for me over the near term, I feel like this is the right time for me to explore other opportunities in and around hockey.”
There are a ton of NHL head coach openings at the moment, and many of them could be appealing to Tocchet.
The Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins, the two teams where Tocchet enjoyed the most success during his hockey career, are looking for new coaches. So are the New York Rangers, Chicago Blackhawks, Seattle Kraken, and Anaheim Ducks.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the entire Vancouver Canucks organization, starting with Francesco and Luigi Aquilini, Jim Rutherford, and Patrik Allvin. It’s been a pleasure and great learning experience to work with you all,” Tocchet added.
Tocchet was the first coaching hire by the current Canucks management, following a very public breakup with Bruce Boudreau, who Jim Rutherford and Patrik Allvin inherited. They seemingly had a good relationship. Tocchet also seemed to get along well with Quinn Hughes.
The same probably can’t be said for Tocchet and Elias Pettersson, given the coach was visibly frustrated when talking about his star centre on numerous occasions. Was that a contributing factor, or did the grass simply look greener in other markets?
Tocchet took the high road in his comments, thanking the players, coaches, staff, fans, and even the media.
“To the players — thank you. Regardless of our results, I always felt your heart and effort was there. I was honoured to be your coach,” said Tocchet.
“To the coaching staff and support staff — you guys are first class, and you made it easy and enjoyable to come to work every day.
“Thank you for everything you give to help make the team a success.
“To the media, I appreciate your work and your diligence, your easy — and your difficult — questions. You guys do a great job, thank you.
“And to the Canucks fans — your infectious spirit, loyal commitment and will to win kept me and the entire team on our toes. I appreciate how you have made yourselves a driving force in the Canucks community.
“I’ve enjoyed my time here, and I wish everyone the best.”
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