Flyers being diligent as head coaching interviews pick up originally appeared on NBC Sports Philadelphia
As Chuck Fletcher mentioned in his end-of-the-season press conference, there is no firm time frame for the Flyers’ head coaching hire.
“I think we’re aware of the calendar, but the important thing is to get the right coach,” the Flyers’ general manager said earlier this month. “Get the right fit, the right chemistry. As long as it takes, that’s what we’ll take.”
The hiring of a new head coach is a major decision for the Flyers, especially with the organization staring down a pivotal turn ahead following a disastrous 25-46-11 season. So the Flyers will be prudent and meticulous in the process of identifying that all-important voice.
The Flyers’ diligent process appears to be picking up with a few veteran head coaching candidates.
The club has interviewed John Tortorella, a source confirmed to NBC Sports Philadelphia. ESPN’s Kevin Weekes first reported the news Tuesday.
The soon-to-be 64-year-old Tortorella is a demanding, old-school coach who preaches accountability and discipline. He last coached the Blue Jackets in 2020-21 and has done in-studio color commentary for ESPN this season.
More:Â Is fiery Tortorella the fixer for Flyers?
The Flyers are meeting with Barry Trotz this week to discuss the head coaching job, according to a report last Saturday night by Sportsnet’s Jeff Marek.
Trotz could be the most sought-after bench boss currently on the market. Including the Flyers, there are six head coaching jobs open right now: the Blackhawks, Golden Knights, Jets, Red Wings and Stars.
The future Hall of Famer Trotz could have his pick of the litter after being fired by the Islanders this month.
Fletcher had always admired the Islanders’ game under Trotz, who knocked the Flyers out of the 2020 playoffs in the second round. The 59-year-old is a two-time Jack Adams Award winner and won the 2018 Stanley Cup with the Capitals.
More:Â Is Trotz the Flyers’ guy? The case for why and why not
Subscribe to and rate Flyers Talk
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Art19 | YouTube
