Shortly after Rick Tocchet announced his exit from the Vancouver Canucks ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season, his name took center stage in the coaching market as almost every team showed great interest in the 61-year-old head coach. However, despite their intentions, the Boston Bruins have lost some ground in the negotiations, and reports indicate another franchise is in a prime position to sign Tocchet.
The Canucks are still considering their options to succeed Tocchet during the 2025-26 NHL campaign, with reports suggesting there are two strong names in contention. Tocchet and the Canucks are parting in different ways with both parties set for new beginnings ahead of next season.
The Bruins were initially believed to be the frontrunners in Tocchet’s sweepstakes, but it seems there’s been a sudden turn of events. The 2023-24 Jack Adams Award winner might be steering away from Beantown and closer to another historic city in the NHL.
In light of the latest reports, the search for Jim Montgomery and Joe Sacco’s successor in Boston will continue, as their strongest candidate is expected to be taken off the market soon. As insiders Pierre LeBrun and Frank Seravalli reported, the Philadelphia Flyers are hiring Tocchet ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season.
The Flyers are reportedly finding their successor to John Tortorella, who was fired just weeks before the end of the regular season and is still in the coaching carousel.
Canucks have reportedly found next head coach
According to reports from TSN’s Darren Dreger, the Canucks have finally made a decision in their next head coach. Adam Foote is reportedly set to become the 22nd head coach in franchise history.
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Foote is expected to have an immediate impact upon signing, as he has been working as an assistant coach under Tocchet’s staff in Vancouver. Foote has already built bridges with the current players and could provide much-needed fresh air into the locker room ahead of a crucial season.