NEW YORK (AP) — The NHL suspended and fined Philadelphia Flyers coach John Tortorella for acting unprofessionally towards the officials by not leaving the bench area after a game penalty.
Tortorella left the bench reluctantly on Saturday night after getting the game penalty and a bench minor early in the Flyers’ 7-0 loss at Tampa Bay.
Tortorella, who coached the 2004 Stanley Cup-winning Lightning team being honored that night, was penalized just 10:49 into the game after Philadelphia fell behind 4-0.
Tortorella showed displeasure toward the officials, then repeatedly told referees Wes McCauley and Brandon Schrader that he wouldn't leave. After a few minutes, he finally went to the locker room. Associate coach Brad Shaw took his place.
Tortorella will not be present at home games against San Jose on Tuesday and Toronto on Thursday.
