3 NHL Teams Peter Laviolette Could Coach In 2023-24

Peter Laviolette, the former head coach of the Washington Capitals, wrapped up his time with the team as his three-year contract was expiring. He and general manager Brian MacLellan mutually agreed to part ways, but Laviolette brought the conversation up first, recognizing that he likely wouldn't be back next season after the team missed the playoffs for the first time since 2013-14.

Although the team had 440 man games lost and lost some key players at the trade deadline, they were able to go on a 12-1-2 run in December and showed that any team can win at any time. Laviolette isn't satisfied with his coaching career yet despite a record of 752-503-150 with 25 ties and a Stanley Cup. He is one of four coaches to get three different teams to Stanley Cup finals, doing so with the Carolina Hurricanes (2006), Philadelphia Flyers (2010), and Nashville Predators (2017).

He is eighth in wins all-time, but he said his Stanley Cup Final record is what bothers him (1-2). He would at least like to even that up and also said, "I do want to coach again if somebody will have me." There are already some teams without a coach and the offseason might lead to more.

Anaheim Ducks

The Anaheim Ducks are one of those teams without a coach and even though they are at the bottom of the league right now, they have some very promising young players that can turn this franchise around in a hurry. Laviolette would have the opportunity to get to the finals eventually, but it might not be very soon. He is only 58 and likely has a number of years left in the game.

Nashville Predators

The Nashville Predators haven't changed coaches yet, but Barry Trotz is taking over as general manager and some changes could definitely be in order. John Hynes has done a solid job, but when GMs are changed, they typically like to bring in someone they choose. That could be the case as Laviolette could make a welcomed return to the place where he almost coached the team to their first Stanley Cup.

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Pittsburgh Penguins made lots of changes and even though a coaching change hasn't come yet, one may. Mike Sullivan's coaching philosophy has grown old and the Penguins failed to make the postseason for the first time since 2005-06 despite great seasons from their veteran core. If there is an opening, Laviolette could have a chance to even up that Stanley Cup Final record in short order as the window to win in Pittsburgh seems very small, but is still open.