Rick Tocchet took over behind the Canucks bench on Jan 22, 2023.

On Jan 22, 2023, the Vancouver Canucks made the decision to hire Rick Tocchet as the 21st head coach in franchise history. It is safe to say this hiring has worked out as in the 83 games since, the Canucks are 52-23-8 and hold the fifth-best points percentage during that time. The team has also gone through a massive culture shift, resulting in Vancouver becoming a Stanley Cup contender this season. 

One of the biggest reasons the Canucks have had so much success under Tocchet is his continual preaching of structure. He will hold players accountable and, as was evident at the beginning of his tenure, isn't afraid to go back to basics during practices. Here is a look at some defensive improvements Vancouver has had under Tocchet compared to the previous 83 games before his arrival. 

As the table shows, the Canucks are doing a fantastic job at taking Tocchet's message and applying it to every game. While the decrease in shots against and goals against is noteworthy, arguably the most significant difference maker has been the penalty kill. While it is still under 80% during his time in Vancouver, the Canucks have done a great job of late, killing 30 of 33 penalties since the start of 2024. Come playoff time, Vancouver's ability will be crucial as it could be the difference between losing in the first round and going on a long run like they did in 2011. 

Over the past year, there has also been plenty of individual success under Tocchet. Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller have over 100 points since the coaching change, while Quinn Hughes' 91 points is 14 more than the next highest defenceman in the NHL. In total, ten players who played at least 30 games in the last year are above .50 points per game, showing that it's not just the top line that is thriving but players throughout the lineup. 

As for Thatcher Demko, well, he has been one of the best goaltenders in the league over the past year. Compared to goalies that have played at least 30 games since Jan 22, 2023, he ranks fourth with a .920 save percentage, fifth in goals-against average with a 2.44, and tied for the league lead in shutouts with six. He also has a record of 36-12-3, which sits tied for fourth in the NHL. While the improved structure has made a difference, these statistics show why Demko is considered one of the best goaltenders in the league and should finish as a finalist for the Vezina this season. 

While it has only been a year, it is safe to say hiring Tocchet was one of the best decisions the Canucks have made in the past decade. It is clear that his message is getting through to the players, as Vancouver currently sits at the top of the NHL standings after 47 games played this season. He has helped restore hope in this market as he looks to guide the Canucks to their first home playoff game at Rogers Arena since 2015. 

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