Philadelphia Flyers shock the NHL world by hiring Rick Tocchet as new head coach

The Philadelphia Flyers have brought one of their most iconic figures back into the fold. On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, the organization announced that Rick Tocchet will take over as the 25th head coach in franchise history. A celebrated former player and recent Jack Adams Award winner, Tocchet is being tasked with guiding the Flyers through a pivotal stage of their rebuild. He will be officially introduced at a press conference on Friday at the Wells Fargo Center, ushering in a new chapter for the Orange and Black.Rick Tocchet’s relationship with Philadelphia is deeply rooted. A fan-favorite power forward during his playing days, Tocchet wore the Flyers crest in two separate stints — first from 1984 to 1993, then again from 2000 to his retirement in 2002. Named team captain after Ron Sutter’s departure and inducted into the Flyers Hall of Fame in 2021, his on-ice toughness and scoring prowess made him a defining figure in Flyers history.Now 61, Tocchet returns not as a player, but as a seasoned NHL bench boss. His coaching résumé includes head coaching stints in Tampa Bay, Arizona, and most recently Vancouver, where he earned the 2023–24 Jack Adams Award. He’s also held assistant roles with the Avalanche, Coyotes, Lightning, and Penguins.Flyers GM Danny Brière emphasized Tocchet’s ability to connect with players across all stages of development:“Rick’s ability to teach and understand his players, combined with his passion for winning, brings out the best in young players at different stages of their development and has earned the respect and confidence of highly talented All-Stars and veteran players alike.”President of Hockey Operations Keith Jones added, “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 keeps things simple but firm when it comes to coaching. He wants his teams to play fast, push the puck up ice with purpose, and stay tight defensively — especially in their own end. He leans on a structured system, but it’s not overly complicated. Players know where they’re supposed to be and what’s expected. He’s also not the kind of coach who calls players out in front of the room or to the media. He’ll be blunt when needed, but always with respect. Accountability matters, but so does trust.With a legacy rooted in grit and leadership, Rick Tocchet now aims to steer the Flyers back to prominence. “I couldn’t be more excited to lead this team back among the NHL elite where we belong,” Tocchet said. The city, the fans, and the franchise are ready for the next step — and their new coach is all in.Also Read: Winnipeg Jets face elimination in game 5 against Dallas Stars: Can they stay alive?