The 2024-25 NHL regular season has concluded, leading to an offseason of reflection for nine eliminated teams. Each team will evaluate their performance, assessing failures and successes while strategizing for free agency, trades, and the upcoming draft.

The New Jersey Devils showed resilience despite injuries and the absence of star Jack Hughes, bolstered by strong performances from Nico Hischier and Jesper Bratt. In contrast, the Columbus Blue Jackets made strides but struggled with goaltending and injuries. The Calgary Flames improved their identity but faced offensive challenges, while the Anaheim Ducks' youth showed promise, highlighted by Luka Dostal's goaltending.

Other teams like the Boston Bruins embraced a rebuild, trading assets for future potential but suffered a disappointing season. The Buffalo Sabres are desperate to snap their long playoff drought, while the Chicago Blackhawks are rebuilding around young talent. The Detroit Red Wings are seeking consistency to end their playoff absence, while the Nashville Predators and New York Islanders need to reassess their roster dynamics in preparation for a more competitive future.

Rick Tocchet's exit from the Vancouver Canucks has led to speculation about his potential return to the Philadelphia Flyers, where he is a beloved former player. The Flyers recently parted ways with John Tortorella, and Tocchet's deep connection to the organization makes him a prime candidate for the coaching vacancy.

During his tenure in Vancouver, Tocchet led the team to a solid performance, including a near playoff run. His appreciation for player development, particularly with young talent, aligns with the Flyers' need for a coach who can nurture their roster of emerging players. Tocchet's reputation for communication and structure may usher in a new era for the Flyers as they aim to rebuild and restore the franchise's competitive edge.

The Philadelphia Flyers have solidified their partnership with the Reading Royals, extending their ECHL affiliation for an additional two years, keeping the collaboration alive until the end of the 2026-27 season. Since its inception in 2014, this relationship has proven advantageous for player development, notably this season with Jacob Gaucher making his NHL debut. Gaucher, a pivotal player for the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, showcased his skills with a remarkable 22 goals and 61 points for Reading last season.

The Royals have also benefited from this connection, with several players transitioning from the ECHL to the NHL, such as Tyrell Goulbourne, Hayden Hodgson, and Max Willman. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of proximity and shared interests, as the three organizations enhance the development pipeline for future NHL talent. Reading aims to capitalize on this partnership, eyeing a return to glory with the Kelly Cup.

The Reading Royals have reaffirmed their partnership with the Philadelphia Flyers, extending their affiliation agreement through at least the 2027-28 season. The Royals, serving as the ECHL affiliate, have been linked to the Flyers since 2014, with multiple renewals highlighting a strong relationship that benefits player development across all levels. This geographical synergy is significant, as the Royals are located close to both the Flyers and their AHL affiliate, the Lehigh Valley Phantoms.

President David Farrar expressed enthusiasm about the continuation of this relationship, emphasizing its relevance for player growth. The Royals aim to cultivate talent for the Flyers while also aspiring to reclaim the coveted Kelly Cup, last won in 2013. Notably, Jacob Gaucher, a recent product of this system, made his NHL debut after progressing through Reading, showcasing the effectiveness of this affiliate chain.

Rick Tocchet's coaching future is in flux as speculation mounts regarding his next destination. NHL historian Stan Fischler has shifted his focus from Tocchet as a candidate for the New York Rangers' head coach position, suggesting instead that he is leaning towards joining the Philadelphia Flyers, a team with which he has deep historical ties. The Flyers drafted Tocchet in 1983, and he enjoyed a successful stint in Philadelphia, including a trip to the Stanley Cup Final.

Tocchet's contract situation with the Vancouver Canucks has been complicated. Canucks president Jim Rutherford confirmed that the team will not extend Tocchet's contract, although a lucrative new offer has been presented. If accepted, it would make him the highest-paid coach in Canucks history. Tocchet previously expressed his desire to remain with the Canucks, but with mounting interest from the Flyers and the uncertainties in Vancouver, a resolution is expected soon. The betting odds favor Tocchet as the leading candidate for the Flyers' coaching vacancy.