On Thursday, the NHL witnessed a surprising turn of events with the firing of John Tortorella as head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers. This abrupt decision has ignited the annual end-of-season NHL coaching watch, as fans and analysts alike speculate on potential replacements for the experienced coach. Despite indications earlier in the week that the Flyers intended to evaluate Tortorella's mental and physical state after the season, his postgame remarks and internal comments ultimately sealed his fate.
With Tortorella's dismissal, attention turns to Daniel Briere, the Flyers' general manager, as he embarks on the search for a new head coach. Currently, respected veteran Brad Shaw has been appointed as the interim coach for the remainder of the season. However, speculation is rife regarding Rick Tocchet, who has strong ties to the Flyers organization, as a potential candidate. Other notable names include David Carle, head coach at the University of Denver, and the three-time Stanley Cup champion Joel Quenneville, who was cleared to coach last July. Additionally, coaches like Jay Woodcroft and Gerard Gallant are free agents and could be in the mix.
It is important to note that the Flyers are likely to take their time in conducting a thorough search, indicating that any significant hiring will occur in the offseason. While Shaw may be considered as an in-house option, it appears he may not be the front-runner for the position.
As the Flyers make headlines, the coaching market across the NHL is also heating up. Here’s a look at some of the current coaching situations around the league:
Several teams are currently evaluating whether to remove the interim tag from their coaches:
Joe Sacco, Boston Bruins Anders Sorensen, Chicago Blackhawks Brad Shaw, Philadelphia FlyersBoth the Bruins and Blackhawks have publicly stated that their interim coaches have a legitimate chance to be named the full-time head coach. However, given the Bruins’ struggles to remain in playoff contention, their decision-making process may be more complicated.
Currently, only Rick Tocchet of the Vancouver Canucks is on an expiring contract. Canucks GM Patrik Allvin recently praised Tocchet's performance this season, highlighting his rapport with players and ability to communicate effectively. There is a club option on Tocchet's contract, and Allvin expressed hope that the team can extend the reigning Jack Adams Award winner. However, Tocchet has indicated that he prefers to focus on the playoff chase before addressing his contract situation.
Several coaches are entering the final year of their contracts, including:
Greg Cronin, Anaheim Ducks Lindy Ruff, Buffalo Sabres Ryan Huska, Calgary Flames Peter DeBoer, Dallas Stars Kris Knoblauch, Edmonton Oilers Peter Laviolette, New York Rangers Jon Cooper, Tampa Bay LightningIn particular, Lindy Ruff has expressed a desire to return, and it appears that Sabres GM Kevyn Adams shares this sentiment. Meanwhile, discussions surrounding Laviolette's future are heightened as the Rangers navigate a challenging season.
There are additional coaching scenarios worth monitoring, including:
Mike Sullivan, Pittsburgh Penguins Andrew Brunette, Nashville PredatorsSullivan, who signed a three-year extension in August 2022, remains a highly respected figure within the league. Conversely, Brunette appears to have the backing of Predators GM Barry Trotz, indicating stability in his role.
As the NHL coaching carousel begins to turn, the implications of these decisions will reverberate throughout the league. The Flyers' next steps will be crucial in determining their future direction, while the broader coaching market continues to evolve.
