Panthers cite inconsistency, philosophical divide for Gallant firing

The Florida Panthers have lifted the curtain a bit in regards to their decision to fire head coach Gerard Gallant.

Related: Panthers officially name GM Rowe interim head coach

In a conference call Monday, team president Matt Caldwell said the team had high expectations after winning the Atlantic Division last season and making apparent upgrades over the summer, particularly to the blue line. Quite simply, those expectations were not being met early on under Gallant's guidance.

General manager Tom Rowe, who will officially take over as interim head coach for the balance of the season, stated there was no friction in the relationship and that the coaching staff and management worked together, with one caveat:

Key to that divide is the fact Gallant wanted a bigger, tougher team, while management favors speed and skill in the mode of the 2016 Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins.

Rowe added the Panthers considered waiting until the end of a six-game road trip to evaluate the situation, but blowing a 2-0 lead in Carolina on Sunday was enough of an impetus to make the move.

Gallant was notified by owner Vinnie Viola over the phone after making his postgame comments, while the players were made aware of the decision during the team's flight to Chicago.

Contrary to public perception, the fired coach was not left to fend for a ride, choosing instead to take a taxi on his own volition.

Related: Panthers co-owner maintains Gallant was offered ride following dismissal

Now that the dust has settled, it's clear that Rowe will focus on coaching, while all Panthers personnel decisions will be made by Dale Tallon and assistant general managers Eric Joyce and Steve Werier.

Rowe's first game behind the bench will be Tuesday against the Blackhawks.