The Vancouver Canucks have offered John Tortorella the opportunity to become the team's head coach, according to Gary Lawless of the Winnipeg Free Press on Friday afternoon.
Citing a league source, Lawless states that the two sides are close to an agreement that will bring Tortorella to Vancouver.
This news comes on the heels of the New York Rangers formally announcing the hiring of Alain Vigneault, the Dallas Stars introducing Lindy Ruff and the Phoenix Coyotes announcing a contract extension with Dave Tippett. If Lawless' report proves accurate, all head coaching vacancies will be filled.
Tortorella has largely been considered the favorite for the Canucks' position. In addition, John Stevens and Scott Arniel were mentioned as candidates of interest.
If Tortorella ends up in Vancouver, the Rangers and Canucks will have virtually swapped head coaches.
In 854 career regular season games as an NHL head coach, Tortorella has accumulated a record of 410-340-67 (37 ties). In 2004, he led the Tampa Bay Lightning to a Stanley Cup championship.
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