NHL

Not the Bruins: Rick Tocchet has reportedly found his new team in the NHL after Canucks’ exit

Former Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet is one of the most coveted candidates in the NHL coaching carousel, and he might have already made a final decision about his next team, and it's not the Boston Bruins.

Philadelphia Flyers Hall of Fame inductee Rick Tocchet delivers an induction speech before a game between the Philadelphia Flyers and the Calgary Flames at Wells Fargo Center on November 16, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
© Tim Nwachukwu/Getty ImagesPhiladelphia Flyers Hall of Fame inductee Rick Tocchet delivers an induction speech before a game between the Philadelphia Flyers and the Calgary Flames at Wells Fargo Center on November 16, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

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.

Advertisement

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.

Tweet placeholder
Advertisement

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.

Conor Garland sidesteps question with cryptic comment about his future on Elias Pettersson’s Canucks ahead of contract season

see also

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.

Advertisement

Survey

Who will have the better campaign during the 2025-26 NHL season?

ALREADY VOTED 0 PEOPLE

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.

Advertisement
ALSO READ
Maurice sends strong message after Panthers' costly third-period collapse vs Flyers
NHL

Maurice sends strong message after Panthers' costly third-period collapse vs Flyers

Has any NHL team ever finished the season undefeated? The closest near-perfect runs
NHL

Has any NHL team ever finished the season undefeated? The closest near-perfect runs

NHL’s most devoted fans who stuck through every losing season
NHL

NHL’s most devoted fans who stuck through every losing season

Marchand sends strong message after scoring game-winner in Panthers' narrow win vs Flyers
NHL

Marchand sends strong message after scoring game-winner in Panthers' narrow win vs Flyers

Better Collective Logo