Charles Barkley’s “2 Great Friends” Not Enough To Stop Bittersweet Moment Over Major Coyotes Shift

Charles Barkley has time and again expressed his sentiment on how the NHL playoff is the most nerve-wracking and exciting thing in the world. The 61-year-old was a fan of the Philadelphia Flyers during his Philadelphia 76ers days. Rick Tocchet, NHL legend, also started his career in Philadelphia and moved to Phoenix just like Chuck. Both superstars have shared a bond since the 80s. And now with the heartbreaking news that the Arizona Coyotes will shift to a new venue that has left bittersweet feelings for Barkley.

Charles Barkley on The Steam Room podcast with Ernie Johnson spoke about his love for the Coyotes. During the podcast, he revealed that due to the Coyotes he also got to know NHL legend Wayne Gretzky “really well.”

“I got to give a shout to my Arizona Coyotes they gone. I got to know Wayne Gretzky really well and Rick Tocchet, I knew Tocchet from my Philly days. I was a Coyotes fan went to a few games. They are going to Salt Lake City. But I want to thank everybody in the Yotes organization for what just a great time in Arizona.” 

He expressed how sad he was with the franchise moving elsewhere but was thankful for everybody who was at some time part of the Coyotes. Talking about being friends with Tocchet and Gretzky and being fortunate enough to watch the games live. “I hate you all are leaving Arizona, but thank you all for everybody played for the Arizona Coyotes. It was an honor and pleasure to go those games. Made 2 great friends Tocchet and Wayne so thank you guys and good luck to Ryan Smith in SLC…”

Not just NHL friends, Chuck also has been friends with MLB player Bryce Harper. But how did he meet Rick Tocchet?

Charles Barkley on his connection with Rick Tocchet

Charles Barkley did visit one of the Coyotes’ games and spoke with Arizona’s sports station regarding his friendship with then-coach Tocchet.  He told 98.7 FM in 2018, “I don’t actually remember because we’ve been together since the 80s. I turned into a big Flyers fan and a big hockey fan. It’s amazing how life comes full circle. He was a great player and now he’s the coach of the Coyotes. We have been through everything together and I’m so proud of his success.”

“Not many guys become head coaches. To see a guy, 30 years later, become the head coach in your city is pretty cool. I remember calling him when he first got the job. It was really cool. I talk to Toc all the time, but I don’t bug him because he’s got a real job.”

Not just the Coyotes but Barkley’s favorite Phoenix Suns also seem to be out of the playoffs. The Suns lost their 3rd playoff game and look out of sorts against the Wolves. Will they provide a moment of glory for Barkley or will they go out with a clean sweep?