Tortorella Out In Tampa Bay

Rumors about John Tortorella's firing had been swirling for weeks. Now it's official. From TSN.ca:

The Tampa Bay Lightning announced Tuesday John Tortorella will not return next season as the team's head coach.

The decision comes after the Lightning finished last in the Southeast Division at 31-42-9, missing the postseason for the first time in five years. Tampa Bay recorded just 71 points, tied with Los Angeles for the lowest total in the NHL.

So does this open the door for Barry Melrose to return to coaching? That rumor has been making the rounds, too.