Tocchet Gives Game Puck to Flyers Broadcaster Battling Cancer
After Philadelphia's first win of the season, Rick Tocchet awarded the game puck to radio host Jason Myrtetus, who is fighting Stage 4 cancer. Myrtetus had spoken to the team earlier in the day, and Tocchet called the address powerful. Captain Sean Couturier also presented Myrtetus with Rocky gloves in the locker room.
Jason Myrtetus has led Philadelphia’s pregame, intermission, and postgame radio coverage since 2008. He was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2024; this summer, he learned it had reached his lungs and liver. He has said he received a six-to-24-month prognosis.
After the Flyers beat Ottawa 3-1 at Xfinity Mobile Arena, Rick Tocchet began his press conference by awarding Myrtetus the game puck. Captain Sean Couturier later gave him Rocky gloves in the locker room. The victory was Philadelphia’s first of the season and snapped a franchise-record nine-game opening skid.
This moment may resonate beyond hockey, showing how sports teams can support people facing serious illness. Fans, broadcasters, players, and cancer patients could find encouragement in the public gesture. It may also remind workplaces and communities that small tributes can carry meaning during difficult treatment journeys. However, impact is personal and may vary; for Myrtetus and the Flyers, it could strengthen connection between the organization and its audience.