Tortorella Sounds Off Ahead of Gauthier’s Return vs Flyers

Gauthier’s comments ahead of the game—calling it “a game circled on my calendar”—have only added fuel to the fire, positioning this as some kind of ‘revenge game.’ Flyers head coach John Tortorella, known for his directness, dismissed the comments. He said, “I don’t give a sh– what he says. I’m not interested in answering any questions about Cutter Gauthier. I don’t wish anything bad on the kid, I’m not going to answer any questions on it.”

His latest comments doubled down on past comments about not knowing Gauthier “from a hole in the wall”. Torts was playing off the trade as if he couldn’t have cared less and he maintains that position as his Flyers try to beat the Duck in a matinee.

Gauthier Hasn’t Exactly Wowed in His NHL Rookie Season

In 33 games this season, Gauthier’s performance for Anaheim has drawn attention, but not necessarily in the best way. With four goals and 14 points, he’s not had the kind of campaign that would have warranted refusing to play for a team and trying to dictate the terms of his exit.

While his return to the ice against Philadelphia is a story, it will be intriguing to see if he’s much of a difference-maker. On the Flyers’ side, Tortorella and his team will be focused on the game itself. Gauthier seems interested in making the game about his return.

The rivalry between Gauthier and the Flyers is a new and somewhat unexpected chapter in the saga.