The Philadelphia Flyers named Rick Tocchet as the next head coach of the team. Following the organization missing the postseason, Phialdelphia decided it was time to get a new voice in the locker room.
The Flyers finished the year 33-39-10 on the year, marking the fifth straight season that the organization failed to qualify for the playoffs. But with this new hire, the team seems very confident about the future of the team.
After being named the new head coach, Tocchet provided some inspiration to the fanbase, releasing a statement.
"I've always been a Flyer at heart and have taken that passion and energy that embodies this city and organization with me throughout my career," Tocchet said. "I want to thank (general manager) Danny Briere, (president of hockey operations) Keith Jones and (governor) Dan Hilferty for this honor and opportunity. I couldn't be more excited to lead this team back among the NHL elite where we belong. We have a lot of work to do and much to accomplish, but I am confident in the direction we are heading and determined to get us there."
Flyers president Keith Jones echoed the excitement from Tocchet.
"We are thrilled to have Rick lead our team into the future," Jones said. "What is impressive about Rick is that players gravitate towards him and develop a strong relationship in the process. There is a genuine trust that he will do everything he can to bring success to the team."
Tocchet owns a career record of 286-265-87, winning two Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins as an assistant coach. The new Flyers coach has plenty of experience, being the leading man for the Vancouver Canucks, Arizona Coyotes, and Tampa Bay Lightning.
