The Philadelphia Flyers are about to embark on a new era. Head coach John Tortorella is in his first season with the organization, and he has some significant concerns about the locker room atmosphere.
Following a disappointing 25-46-11 season in 2021-22, the Flyers will be without long-time captain Claude Giroux, who has joined the Ottawa Senators.
Tortorella is concerned about the lack of leadership and accountability in the locker room after learning more about it from people within the organization, including general manager Chuck Fletcher. Tortorella’s primary aim once training camp begins will be to improve the culture in Philadelphia.
“I have big worries about the room,” Tortorella said on SiriusXM’s NHL Network Radio. “I’ve been back and forth all summer. I live in New York and travel back and forth to Philadelphia in an attempt to migrate there. Spent some time at the office talking to players, personnel, Chuck (Fletcher), and the entire front office. I’m very concerned about what’s going on inside. Situations, norms, and accountability in the room are at the forefront before we ever step onto the ice. You can’t get much done on the ice until you get your room in order, and I believe we have some work to do there.”
Tortorella said on NHL Network Radio on SiriusXM, “As far as the room, I have serious issues about the room.” “The entire summer, I have been back and forth. My goal is to move to Philadelphia, however I currently reside in New York. Spent some time at the office chatting with the staff, players, Chuck (Fletcher), and the rest of the front office. What happens in there worries me greatly. Situations, norms, and responsibility are top priorities in the room before we even get on the ice. I believe that there is still some work to be done in the room before you can do anything on the ice.”