Rick Tocchet is leaving the Vancouver Canucks after two-plus seasons, and his name will feature prominently among the NHL's coaching openings. The Canucks didn't pick up the team option on Tocchet's contract but instead offered him a new one.

Rick Tocchet will not return as the Vancouver Canucks head coach next season. The NHL team announced the news on Tuesday, saying Tocchet has chosen to step away after discussions with the team and management.

Rick Tocchet isn't returning as head coach of the Vancouver Canucks, making him a top candidate for several NHL vacancies.