Rick Tocchet’s Future in Limbo: 1 Team Waiting If Canucks Move On

Wednesday, March 19, 2025 ,

Rick Tocchet’s future with the Vancouver Canucks remains uncertain as he enters the final stretch of the season without a contract extension. 

Despite winning the Jack Adams Award last year and leading the Canucks to a strong record, he has yet to commit beyond this season. The Canucks are trying to extend him, but as Rick Dhaliwal put it, “it takes two to tango,” and Tocchet may be weighing his options. 

He’s had to work through a challenging year, dealing with Thatcher Demko’s injuries, Elias Pettersson’s struggles, the J.T. Miller drama, and media scrutiny. 

Elliotte Friedman believes Tocchet won’t let his contract status become a distraction, but if Vancouver doesn’t make a deep playoff run, his future becomes even more uncertain.

At the same time, speculation is growing that Tocchet could be a target for the Philadelphia Flyers if they move on from John Tortorella. 

The Flyers have underperformed this season, and there are signs that Tortorella’s hard-nosed approach is wearing thin on some players. Tocchet, a former Flyers captain, has deep ties to the organization and played alongside GM Danny Briere in Phoenix. 

The Canucks have a team option for 2025-26, meaning the decision ultimately rests with Patrik Allvin and Jim Rutherford. 

If Vancouver secures a playoff spot and Tocchet sees a promising future, he may choose to stay. If not, the Flyers or another team in need of a steady, experienced coach could come calling. 

As Dhaliwal put it, “maybe he needs more time to think about it,” but with just weeks left in the season, Tocchet’s decision could shape the Canucks’ direction—and the Flyers’ next move.

Photo Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

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