Published 1 year ago • loading... • Updated 1 year ago
Rick Tocchet won't return as Canucks coach. He becomes a top candidate for vacancies around NHL
Rick Tocchet will not return as Vancouver Canucks coach after 2½ seasons, with the team announcing his departure on April 29, 2025.
Tocchet decided not to sign a new contract amidst locker room issues, injuries, and the Canucks missing the playoffs in the 2024-25 season.
He won the 2024 Jack Adams Award by guiding the Canucks to a 50-win season and was critical of Elias Pettersson amid team challenges.
Tocchet emphasized the importance of family and noted that with his contract ending, now is an appropriate moment to seek new opportunities, joining other top NHL coaching prospects.
Canucks President Jim Rutherford called Tocchet's departure very disappointing but respects his decision, noting the team must now begin a coaching search.
Rick Tocchet, 61, had an expiring contract with Vancouver. Now the NHL club confirms that there will be no continuation with the coach. – This is very sad