John Tortorella Discusses His Team After The Final Pre-Season Game
With pre-season over, and the start of the regular season on the horizon, Flyers Head Coach John Tortorella joined “The Best Show Ever?” to discuss his team. What does he think after his first training camp in Philly? Will Carter Hart be healthy in time for the first game? Why was Cam York sent down? John Tortorella answered those questions, and more, in a very honest interview. Here is what he had to say.
On Why Cam York Was Sent Down
Didn’t play well enough. I don’t think he had a very good camp. The thing that really sticks out with Cam is he has tremendous skill, tremendous Legs, but he doesn’t try to make a difference. I thought he waited through games. Didn’t try to take control of things. I think the mental part of the game for him is a process he is going to have to go through. And him going to the minors isn’t a bad thing. I think when people see players sent down, they think we are chucking them out. This is part of the process he has to go through. Eventually, he is going to be a big part of this organization.
On if Carter Hart is Completly Healthy
I expect him to play. We’ve been very careful there. He is a very important piece to us. I would have liked to see him in an exhibition game. But versus his health and risking more on an injury by playing him once, we decided to stay on the safe side. He is practicing. I think his health is getting better and better each day. He’ll be out starting goalie come Thursday.
On If He Knows What His Lineups Will Look Like
No, I do not know. I don’t know who my top 6 are, I don’t know who my 6 defensemen are. It is still a very fluid situation. I don’t think anyone has really stood out and grabbed things here. In one way that is good, in another, it worries me a little bit. I just don’t know what the combinations are going to look like.
We are still looking at some kids. I think this Noah Cates has really stood out as one of the top younger players. Going to wait and see as we get closer to our open to see what the lines are. As I said, we are going to have to score by committee. I don’t think we are built right now to have that top line. I think it’s going to be a balanced lineup. And I think it will have to be by committee.
Listen to John Tortorella’s Full Interview Below…
