Report: Rick Tocchet to interview for Rangers and Kraken coaching jobs

rick tocchet
Apr 21, 2021; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Coyotes head coach Rick Tocchet looks on prior to a game against the Minnesota Wild at Gila River Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Elliotte Friedman is reporting that Rick Tocchet will be interviewed by the New York Rangers for the vacant head coaching job. Additionally, Frank Seravalli is noting that the Seattle Kraken will speak with him as well.

https://twitter.com/FriedgeHNIC/status/1394752688106131462?s=20

Rick Tocchet to interview for Rangers coaching job

Rick Tocchet: Career Coaching Record of 178-200-60 .475% and Playoffs: 4-5

The 57 year-old former NHL power forward took the reins as head coach of the Coyotes back in 2017. Tocchet amassed a 125-131-34 record with Arizona during his tenure. He is widely considered an up and coming coach who knows how to relate to his players. Many in NHL circles view his record as a feat for getting more with less than any other coach.

rick tocchet
Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

“After meeting with Rick, we have agreed that a coaching change is in the best interest of the club,” GM Bill Armstrong said after letting Tocchet go. “This was a very difficult decision, but we believe that it is time for a new direction and new leadership.” Arizona had held the last playoff spot heading into the last month of the season before the Blues took them over.

Gerard Gallant leading candidate

Gerard Gallant: Career Coaching Record of 270-216-4-51 .550% and Playoffs: 18-15

The 57 year-old Gallant is on many NHL team’s short list of candidates. He had three stop in the NHL with Columbus, Florida, and Vegas. Gallant was a smashing success for the expansion Golden Knights taking them to the Stanley Cup Finals in their first season.

He already met with Chris Drury last week and it went well. At least 3-4 more candidates are expected to be interviewed.

NHL Rumors

Kings expected to make some trades this offseason. Read more here.

https://www.thedailygoalhorn.com/kings-gm-rob-blake-agrees-with-drew-doughty-they-will-bring-in-talent-via-trade/

Anthony Scultore is the founder of Forever Blueshirts and has been covering the New York Rangers and the NHL... More about Anthony Scultore

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