Challenges Faced by John Tortorella: Obstacles and Turning Points

Updated: April 20, 2026

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of John Tortorella. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

John Tortorella is an American professional ice hockey coach and former player currently serving as the head coach for the Vegas Golden Knights of the NHL. His extensive coaching career includes head coaching positions with the New York Rangers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Vancouver Canucks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Philadelphia Flyers. Notably, Tortorella led the Tampa Bay Lightning to win the Stanley Cup in 2004.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

2005: Goaltender Issues

Before the start of the 2005–06 season, Tampa Bay's starting goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin left the team due to salary cap restrictions. Tortorella was hard on Lightning goaltender John Grahame for much of the 2005–06 season.

2008: Canucks Missed the Playoffs

In 2014 John Tortorella's tenure with the Canucks would last only a single season, as the team missed the playoffs for the first time since 2008.

May 29, 2013: Fired by the Rangers

On May 29, 2013, John Tortorella was fired by the New York Rangers after being eliminated from the second round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.

January 18, 2014: Suspension for Dressing Room Incident

On January 18, 2014, during the first intermission of a game, John Tortorella entered the Calgary Flames dressing room area and had to be restrained. He was subsequently suspended by the NHL for 15 days without pay.

March 2, 2014: Controversy Sparked by Goaltender Choice

On March 2, 2014, John Tortorella sparked controversy when he chose to start Eddie Läck in the 2014 Heritage Classic held in Vancouver over Roberto Luongo.

May 1, 2014: Fired by the Canucks

On May 1, 2014, John Tortorella and assistant coach Mike Sullivan were fired by the Vancouver Canucks.

2016: Coached US at World Cup of Hockey

In 2016, John Tortorella coached the United States at the World Cup of Hockey. The team failed to advance past the group stage, losing all three games. Prior to the tournament, he stated he would bench any player who protested during the national anthem.

December 29, 2019: Clock Mishandling Controversy

On December 29, 2019, officials mishandled the clock in overtime, causing the Blue Jackets to lose 3–2 against the Chicago Blackhawks.

January 2, 2020: Fined for Comments About Officials

On January 2, 2020, John Tortorella was fined $20,000 by the NHL for negative comments about the on-ice officials.

August 25, 2020: Additional Fine for Media Availability Actions

On August 25, 2020, John Tortorella was fined an additional $25,000 for his actions during virtual media availability following the Blue Jackets' elimination from the playoff bubble by the Tampa Bay Lightning.

March 9, 2024: Ejection and Suspension

On March 9, 2024, John Tortorella was ejected from a game against the Tampa Bay Lightning after a verbal dispute with referees. He stalled on the bench, leading to a two-game suspension and a $50,000 fine the following day.