The Tigers' top-eight hopes were dashed in a 36-point defeat to St Kilda on Sunday, with McQualter unable to explain his side's lack of pressure around the ball.
The disappointing display came as the interim coach attempts to impress the club hierarchy in his pursuit of the full-time job for next year and beyond.
Cotchin, who announced his retirement days earlier, missed the Saints clash with soreness.
But the triple-premiership captain and Brownlow medallist is expected to put his hand up for Saturday's meeting with North Melbourne.
It is the Tigers' last home game of the year before an interstate trip to face Port Adelaide in the final round, and would serve as Cotchin's farewell to Tigers fans.
Asked if Cotchin would play against North, McQualter said: "We're hoping. That's the aim.
"Trent's been such a long servant of our footy club and so important to us.
"The reality is it's now his last two games, so I would hope that the players hope to play in a way that represents Trent and what he's done for us."
Richmond sit 13th, six points out of the top eight, and would likely miss out on a finals spot even if they were to win their two remaining games.
McQualter, who is on the shortlist of candidates to be named Damien Hardwick's successor, said his approach wouldn't change in the circumstances.
"Footy keeps going forward so we have to compete and keep trying to find a way to win the next two games," McQualter said.
Daniel Rioli sustained a nasty-looking injury and required assessment in the change room after he rolled his right ankle while attempting to change direction against St Kilda.
The dashing defender played out the match and was shifted forward on his return to the action after halftime.
McQualter expects Rioli to be fit to take on North Melbourne.
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