By now every Flyers fan knows that Scott Gordon and Kerry Huffman have decided to leave the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, and are now out of the Flyers organization. Gordon and the Flyers agreed to mutually part ways, while Huffman decided to leave his role. Huffman will indeed find another job in the NHL possibly, and Gordon could, as well. But should Flyers and Phantoms fans be shocked by this news? Not so much.
Gordon was a good stable coach for the Phantoms and his record speaks for himself. He owns a 186-121-1 (Tie)-40 record in six seasons as Head Coach of the Phantoms. Yes, he only made the playoffs twice in six years, but let’s not forget this season there are no playoffs for the Phantoms, and last year the season ended early due to Covid-19. He also is the 6th most winningest coach in AHL history with 407 wins. So why would he leave?
The Flyers would not guarantee Gordon more years, as he was entering the final season of his contract. Gordon wanted a safety net, and Flyers General Manager Chuck Fletcher would not grant him such. This is not uncommon for new General Manager’s to hire their guys, so this shouldn’t be surprising at all. Huffman was Gordon’s right-hand man, so him stepping down should have been expected, and he will land on his feet soon. No one can fault Gordon for wanting more stability.
One other reason for Gordon leaving could have been money. With more years comes more money, a raise of some sort. Especially with Gordon being named the interim head coach of the big club on December 17, 2018, while amassing a record of 25-22-4 in 51 games coached that season with the Flyers. Maybe Gordon wanted a raise for all he did for the organization through the rough times. Gordon and Fletcher had a good relationship. The two would talk following games on occasions as Gordon sat down for post-game pressers with the media. Fletcher would also ask the coach for his advice on whom to call-up.
Could there have been a disconnect with making Samuel Morin a Defenseman again…sure. Earlier in the season the Flyers said Morin was a Winger, well he went to Lehigh and played both wing and defense. Although, I do not believe that lead to Gordon walking, rather it were the first two parts as stated above.
“We appreciate the positive impact Scott has had on the Organization in his six years here in Lehigh Valley. Together with Scott and Kerry, we had many special moments including our trip to the AHL Conference Finals during the 2018 Calder Cup Playoffs. We are grateful for their dedication. – Jim Brooks, co-owner of the Phantoms
Well, the search begins for a new coach and Tony Androckitis from insideahl hockey said that Ian Laperrière is the front runner for the vacant position. This would make sense as he has a great rapport with the current prospects throughout the Flyers farm system. I would also believe John Torchetti, Brad Lauer, and Danny Briere would also be in the running for such, as well.
Rumblings around the NHL:
Rick Tocchet would be a perfect fit for the Seattle Kraken Head Coaching position. Perfect fit out on the West coast.
