Rick Tocchet, a former Philadelphia Flyers player and recent head coach appointment, visited the 93.3 WMMR studios to appear on “The Preston & Steve Show.” During his interview, Tocchet reflected on his experiences with the Philadelphia media and discussed his vision for the Flyers.
Tocchet commented on the show’s longstanding success: “I remember being here 20 years ago and I think you guys were number one,” he said. “And you’re still number one. See, that’s what we’re trying to do. We’ve got to try to be sustainable like you guys.”
When asked about choosing Philadelphia over other opportunities, Tocchet cited his belief in the organization’s plan: “I love their plan. That’s really what sold me. They don’t really want to deviate too much…This year, you’ve got a good bunch of young players. I think John Tortorella did a really nice job here. These guys are a close group, and they work hard.
“Now, we’ve got to get to the next level. We’ve got to make a stand here and get back to Flyers hockey.”
Discussing how the team can reach that next level, Tocchet emphasized development under pressure: “Those last six weeks of the season, this is when the really good teams turn up the heat. And you’ve got to turn your heat up too. You can’t stay status quo. And we’ve got a lot of young guys. I’ve got to play these guys in pressure situations. There might be times when you want to put Michkov in for the last few minutes, even in a defensive situation. I want to see them in that situation, not always just offense. Can he defend the puck for us to win the game? That’s what all the great players do.
“So, we’ve talked about that. I had a Zoom call with all the players. I’ve talked to all the players. Everybody’s excited, don’t get me wrong. But we’ve got a lot of work to do here.”
On consistent winning hockey, Tocchet described it as an everyday commitment: “Can you have everybody making the right play at the right time and sacrificing yourself? Are you trying to get points or are you playing winning hockey? Every day you have to think, eat, drink winning hockey. It’s the way you train. It’s your messaging with the players. And sometimes as a coach you have to back off.”
He also spoke about working with Flyers general manager Daniel Briere: “He was a young kid when I played with him in Arizona. A couple of times I gave it to him because I think he took a couple of long shifts. And he reminded me. He goes, ‘Man, you scared the hell out of me.’
“He’s a great guy. Really methodical, really smart. And I looked at his plan and you can tell it’s a well-thought-out plan.”
Regarding player personalities and focus, Tocchet said: “We just acquired this Zegras kid – fun-loving kid. I want him smiling. With Michkov, they’re talking about doing the fancy Michigan around the net. I don’t mind that stuff, just as long as it doesn’t get in the way of winning hockey.”
Tocchet addressed physicality in today’s NHL by referencing another team: “It’s a skill game. But you still have to compete. Look at the Florida Panthers. They’re a tough team. They’ve been to the finals three times, they’ve won the finals back to back. If you look at their team, they’re tough.” The Florida Panthers recently captured consecutive Stanley Cup championships and have reached three straight finals (https://www.nhl.com/news/florida-panthers-beat-edmonton-oilers-in-game-7-of-stanley-cup-final-recap).
On coaching methods and communication during games, Tocchet explained: “If you over-coach, that’s the worst thing to do…I try to put myself as a player…It’s a fast game…Sometimes we over-coach as coaches…That’s why you have to hire good assistant coaches.” He added about motivating players: “Sometimes coaches can talk too much…I try to be more organic…They might not like it…And I’ve kicked some garbage cans around every once in a while.”
Returning as another former Flyer now coaching Philadelphia brought pride for Tocchet: “I’ve been gone for 25 years…I’m proud I’m an old Flyer…the old Flyers won.”
Looking ahead as head coach of Philadelphia Flyers he stated: “If you can win a Stanley Cup in this city…I’m going to say this [celebration] would be Top 3…and could be number one biggest celebration with most people.
“I don’t think people understand outside of Philly: If you win a championship…the whole community comes together…I only dream of that…”
