The Vancouver Canucks and head coach Rick Tocchet will officially part ways this offseason after the team fell 6 points shy of the final playoff spot.
Tocchet’s Canucks endured a tumultuous season which saw a bevy of injuries in the crease, and locker room turmoil which created a media firestorm for the better part of the 2024-25 NHL campaign. Nevertheless, the team managed to post a 38-30-14 record to give themselves a chance to reach the postseason throughout.
The club held an option for the final season of the 61 year old’s contract, but chose not to exercise it. As a result, the 2023-24 Jack Adams award winner will part ways with the franchise he helped guide to a Pacific Division crown last year. As of yet, no replacement has been named.
“I’m choosing to move on from the Vancouver Canucks,” Tocchet said. “Family is a priority, and with my contract lapsing, this becomes the opportune time. While I don’t know where I’m headed, or exactly how this will play out for me over the near term, I feel like this is the right time for me to explore other opportunities in and around hockey.”
“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the entire Vancouver Canucks organization, starting with Francesco and Luigi Aquilini, Jim Rutherford, and Patrik Allvin. It’s been a pleasure and great learning experience to work with you all.”
“To the players — thank you. Regardless of our results, I always felt your heart and effort was there. I was honored to be your coach.”
“To the coaching staff and support staff – you guys are first class, and you made it easy and enjoyable to come to work every day.”
“Thank you for everything you give to help make the team a success.”
“To the media, I appreciate your work and your diligence, your easy – and your difficult – questions. You guys do a great job, thank you.”
“And to the Canucks fans – your infectious spirit, loyal commitment and will to win kept me and the entire team on our toes. I appreciate how you have made yourselves a driving force in the Canucks community.”
“I’ve enjoyed my time here, and I wish everyone the best.”
Tocchet posted a 108-65-27 record across three seasons with Vancouver since replacing Bruce Boudreau as head coach on January 22nd, 2023.
Photo: TheMeaningofFun. This file is made available under the Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication.