The Los Angeles Kings are set to announce Peter Laviolette as their new head coach, according to multiple sources. This decision follows a disappointing season for the Kings, who lost to the Colorado Avalanche in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. This marked the team’s fifth consecutive early playoff exit.
Coaching Changes in Los Angeles
D.J. Smith served as the interim coach and has been with the organization during a challenging period. Other candidates considered for the role included Jay Woodcroft, a former Edmonton Oilers head coach, and Smith himself, who had previously led the Ottawa Senators. Ultimately, the Kings decided to hire Laviolette, leaving few head-coaching vacancies in the NHL.
Peter Laviolette’s Coaching Career
Peter Laviolette, aged 61, brings significant experience to the Kings. He has coached 1,594 NHL games, holding positions with several teams, including:
- New York Rangers
- Washington Capitals
- Nashville Predators
- Philadelphia Flyers
- Carolina Hurricanes
- New York Islanders
Laviolette led the Carolina Hurricanes to a Stanley Cup victory in 2006 and reached the finals with the Flyers in 2010 and the Predators in 2017. After parting ways with the Rangers following the 2024-25 season, Laviolette took a year off from coaching.
Current Coaching Landscape
With Laviolette’s appointment, only two NHL teams now have head-coaching vacancies: the Edmonton Oilers and Toronto Maple Leafs. Laviolette had previously interviewed with the Maple Leafs, while the Oilers also expressed interest in him.
The Kings are hopeful that Laviolette will bring the necessary leadership to turn the team’s playoff fortunes around.
