Flyers have potential to start hot under Rick Tocchet

Nov 28, 2023; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet on the bench against the Anaheim Ducks in the third period at Rogers Arena. Vancouver won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports

Rick Tocchet will start his fourth tenure being the head coach of a National Hockey League team this fall when he’s behind the bench for the Philadelphia Flyers. Tocchet, who won a Jack Adams Award with Vancouver, had previous stints with Tampa Bay and Arizona before getting the nod (and then the axe) with the Canucks. And although he had had different situations, players and teams in various stages of development, Tocchet is hoping to get off to a fast, strong start in the Metropolitan Division. Add to that a schedule that is extremely brutal for three months of the season and that task becomes a little tougher than usual. Thus it’s important that the wins are banked as soon as possible as games in hand will be anything but guaranteed wins the longer the season goes on and the bumps, bruises and travel catches up with every player and team.

Here then is a look back at each of the previous nine seasons Tocchet has coached a team. Sometimes his first 20 games with them were in the or early part of a season when he replaced Barry Melrose and Bruce Boudreau, respectively. Most of the team he was starting with the team he was coaching. And like most NHL coaches, there are some seasons that he fared far better than others. Let’s take a look.

As the Philadelphia Flyers prepare for the 2025 NHL season, there’s a sense of cautious optimism surrounding the team’s future. With Rick Tocchet now at the helm, the Flyers have a unique opportunity to start strong and break free from the mediocrity that has defined their recent years. Known for his fiery passion and ability to connect with players, Tocchet’s leadership could be the catalyst for a successful season.

Tocchet’s coaching style is built on hard work, discipline, and accountability, and these qualities are exactly what the Flyers need to revitalize their game. The Flyers have struggled to find consistency over the past few seasons, and Tocchet’s no-nonsense approach could instill a sense of purpose and drive that propels the team into a hot start. Under his leadership, the Flyers could focus on playing a fast-paced, aggressive style that disrupts their opponents and creates opportunities for quick transitions.

One of the key elements that Tocchet brings to the table is his emphasis on a balanced attack. He’s well aware of the Flyers’ offensive struggles in recent years, and under his guidance, the team could see significant improvements. By emphasizing depth scoring and creating plays from the defense, Tocchet could help unlock the potential of players like Travis Konecny and Joel Farabee, who have the ability to be offensive catalysts.

Additionally, the Flyers’ defense has the potential to improve with Tocchet’s focus on structure and defensive responsibility. With a solid defensive core led by Ivan Provorov and Rasmus Ristolainen, the Flyers have the makings of a group that can provide stability and prevent costly turnovers. Under Tocchet’s guidance, the team’s defense could become more aggressive in transitioning the puck up ice, which could be key in setting the tone for the season.

The Flyers also have a talented goaltending duo in Carter Hart and Samuel Ersson, and Tocchet’s emphasis on defensive zone play could help elevate their performance. Hart, in particular, has shown flashes of brilliance, and with better defensive support, he could find the consistency needed to be a top-tier goalie.

While there’s still a long road ahead for the Flyers, the potential to start hot under Rick Tocchet is undeniable. If the players buy into his system, they have the tools to surprise many this season. With hard work, a more structured game, and a renewed sense of purpose, the Flyers could be one of the most improved teams in the NHL this year. Fans in Philadelphia have every reason to be excited about the future as they look to kickstart a new era under Tocchet’s leadership.