Tocchet hired as Flyers coach....Surprise, surprise

[Spyro Gyra]

Rick Tocchet was hired as coach of the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday.

He replaces John Tortorella, who was fired March 27. Brad Shaw served as interim coach for the final nine games of the season.

Tocchet spent the past three seasons as coach of the Vancouver Canucks, going 108-65-27. The 61-year-old opted to step away from that position on April 29.

"I've always been a Flyer at heart and have taken that passion and energy that embodies this city and organization with me throughout my career," Tocchet said. "I want to thank [general manager] Danny Briere, [president of hockey operations] Keith Jones and [governor] Dan Hilferty for this honor and opportunity. I couldn't be more excited to lead this team back among the NHL elite where we belong. We have a lot of work to do and much to accomplish, but I am confident in the direction we are heading and determined to get us there."

MORE HERE

[netboy65]

Yep, him going there had the same odds as it getting dark tonight

[Spyro Gyra]

Yep, him going there had the same odds as it getting dark tonight

Good one!

[TheJackBurton]

Yep, him going there had the same odds as it getting dark tonight

It was already kind of a predetermined outcome. There was talk of it while he was still under contract with the Canucks.

He's kind of the guy Philly needs. Good with youngsters and vets who might be able to get them to a playoff spot.

[DawgDad]

Almost as surprising as Monty. Preordained.