Flyers GM: “We’re thrilled to announce that [FORMER FLYER] is joining us as our next head coach. We’re confident that [FORMER FLYER] has the skills needed to return this team to glory.

*three years later*

Flyers GM: “Today, I made the difficult decision to dismiss [FORMER FLYER]. While we appreciate his contributions, we think this decision is best for all involved. However, I’m pleased to announce that [FORMER FLYER] will remain with the team in an advisory capacity for the next 247 years, or until he dies–whichever comes later.

*three months later*

Different Flyers GM: “We’re thrilled to announce that [DIFFERENT FORMER FLYER] is joining us as our next head coach. We’re confident that [DIFFERENT FORMER FLYER] has the skills needed to return this team to glory.

Please force Bowen to write twice a week. Don’t offer him 2 pieces a week, don’t “let” him write twice a week; absolutely chain him to the PHLY server and don’t let him leave until he posts two articles a week. And make him write about all the sports teams, because it would probably increase readership in those teams moving forward.

The issue with Tocchet isn’t just he is a former Flyer. It’s the process that seemingly started as soon as grumbling he might be available. The appearance of the focus on bring him in over anyone else. It feels similar to Torts in wanting the big name to show the Flyers still go it. It’s made worse by the fact the hiring group were already buddies with him. The presser started acknowledge the alumni in attendance. Also the search for the GM & PoHo didn’t seem to branch too far outside who Hilferty had already met in the business & watched as a fan. I believe the number of interview according to Briere was 7. That isn’t even close to enough. Maybe 15 people turned down the chance so 7 actual interviews is reasonable.

All that said Tocchet seems to be a perfectly average coach. And depending on the staff they put together they should improve. The big thing, as pointed out in the article, is management needs to put a team out that can compete. That would require a goalie & they are locked in on guys from last season still. That is a bigger challenge with the cap which is a change since the days of Les covering the team daily. The inability to freely remake the roster still seems to vex whoever is in charge with this team.

former flyer great, AKA a career barely .500 coach whose teams have finished an average of 4th or 5th and have never once outperformed their position in the playoffs

Wow, what a treat to have a Les Bowen post on the Flyers. Great post.

For disgruntled Flyers fans, I would point out that Tocchet has a great rep with NHL hockey people. That means a lot. Fans just do not see things that hockey professionals see when they watch a game. Best example: John Kruk announcing a Phillies game. He remembers pitch sequences in a previous at-bat, and changes in a batting stance, or equipment. He does it without notes because he sees things that we fans don’t see.

All that is my way of saying I have confidence in Tocchet because the hockey insiders have confidence in him. If the Flyers figure out the goalie situation, and they don’t get hammered by injuries the way Vancouver did this season, they’ll make the playoffs.

Oh, and Les, the Coyotes played in Utah this season, but I think a big consideration for Tocc was to get back to the East. His family is reportedly still in Pittsburgh.

Thank you Les. Always look forward to your reading your articles and especially enjoy the perspective you bring re the Flyers.

Great job, Les! Understanding Tocchet’s options is a huge part in his selection as the new Coach. I expect he’ll do fine if he’s half the teacher they say he is, and let’s face it: the Power Play can only get better. And with him, I expect a big leap in their production. But you’re right when you point at the Goalie position on that team; it just killed them. They have to fix that. As usual, it’s not the Coach, it’s the talent on the ice. They need several upgrades but fixing the Goalie will go a long way to making them all look like geniuses.

Your know what would be great to see? If Brierre and Jonesy can land a young superstar for 1-C, 1-D, and 1-G so Tocchet has a chance to be successful. Without the horses, it ain’t gonna happen. This rebuild is not about a coach, its about garnering top shelf elite young talent at key positions. Brierre has to earn his money and get this done over the next two years, through trades, draft, or FA. Otherwise no coach is gonna make this crop of third liners, and a couple of second liners, win a Cup any time soon. MM is a second liner until he gets a 1-C to line up with every night. Cups are won with elite first line talent.