John Tortorella's coaching future uncertain after Rangers rumors shut down: Report

John Tortorella may not be behind the bench right now, but he’s not ready to walk away. After being fired by the Philadelphia Flyers near the end of the 2024-25 season, he’s made it clear that he still wants to coach. John Tortorella has always been a passionate leader, and that fire hasn’t faded yet.

John Tortorella wants to stay in game
In April, John Davidson shared an update on Tortorella’s mindset. He said, “John Tortorella wants to coach again because he’s got energy, he loves teaching.” That’s no surprise to anyone who knows Tortorella. He has consistently brought intensity, discipline, and heart to his teams.

"It's possible that other USA Hockey folks could follow. That may include keeping Dan Muse on the coaching staff, but even more noteworthy is mutual interest from former Rangers head coach John Tortorella... Now they could reunite as a power duo behind a familiar bench." #NYR https://t.co/7WLFmHlxG7

— NYRONLY (@nyronly) May 2, 2025

Rumour said he would become part of Mike Sullivan's coaching team at the New York Rangers. Fans wondered whether he would be an assistant coach there. But those rumors were quickly shut down. It looks like that job is not happening.

Also Read: Flyers’ Former Coach John Tortorella Leaves Heartfelt Note For Players After Being Fired

Head coach jobs are nearly all filled
Most NHL teams have already picked their head coaches for next season. That leaves very few chances for John Tortorella to return in a top role. The only major opening left is with the Pittsburgh Penguins. It’s unclear if they are considering Tortorella. If not, he may have to wait.


He could take an assistant coach job for now. But for someone like John Tortorella, who has been a head coach for so long, that might be tough. He may choose to sit out the season and wait for a better chance next year.


John Tortorella is not done with hockey. Even though he was let go by the Flyers, he still has the passion to teach and lead. Rumors of him joining the Rangers didn’t work out, and most coaching jobs are already taken.


The only big job left is with the Penguins. If that doesn’t work out, John Tortorella will have to decide to take a smaller role or wait for another chance. One thing is clear: he still wants to coach, and he’s not giving up yet.