Every coach should have the passion of Flyers' John Tortorella

The Philadelphia Flyers are significantly better than most people expected. Coming into the year, they felt headed for the Macklin Celebrini sweepstakes. It has been far from that for them. 

As we enter a new hockey week, the Flyers sit in third place in the Metropolitan Division with a record of 33-24-8 (74 standings points). They are four points clear of the New York Islanders who are the first team out of the playoffs right now. 

That is not a bad spot to be in midway through March with a very young team. What is the biggest reason for this great season? Well, it has to be John Tortorella. The long-time NHL head coach is in his second season as their head coach and he is doing a remarkable job. 

Saturday’s 7-0 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning wasn’t Philly’s finest this year but it did show exactly why Torts is having a good year. He was ejected in the middle of the game and screamed at the officials for an extended period. It took him a while to finally leave.

The Philadelphia Flyers are where they are because of John Tortorella

The NHL might not like that he showed up their refs like that but Philadelphia Flyers fans should love it. The passion that he brings to being the head coach of this hockey team is second to none. Every team in the league should be looking for this from their guy.

Tortorella gets the most out of his players because he is tough on them. There is a difference between tough and mean. He cares about his players from the past past and present as much as anybody. That is why he does things like this when he is upset about a call.

Don't think this is the last time you'll see Tortorella animated during a hockey game. He expects as much effort and passion from those around him as he brings. Usually, he gets it.

The Flyers aren't as talented as some of the teams below them but they work the hardest. That is a sign of a great leader. Again, every coach in the league should care this much. Hopefully, he keeps bringing this type of energy to this team.