Head coach Peter Laviolette and his staff have lead the Nashville Predators to an overwhelmingly successful first half of the NHL season. They were rewarded today by being named one of the coaching staffs that will lead a team of the league’s best in this year’s All-Star game. L.A. Kings’ coach Darryl Sutter will coach the other half of the All-Star game.
From NHL.com:
Laviolette’s Predators have recorded a League-leading points percentage of .725 (27-9-4) and are assured of retaining the top spot through Saturday’s games. Joining Laviolette will be members of his Nashville coaching staff.
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Laviolette will be making his second career NHL All-Star appearance, having shared coaching duties with Vancouver’s Alain Vigneault for Team Nicklas Lidstrom in their 11-10 win over Team Eric Staal at the 2011 NHL All-Star Game in Raleigh. Sutter will be making his All-Star debut behind the bench.
With guys like Pekka Rinne, Filip Forsberg, Shea Weber, and Roman Josi all having All-Star caliber years, the impression that Laviolette has left on this team so far cannot be understated. From day one, the team has been focused, confident, and prepared going into nearly every game. Due reward for a great coach.
Congrats Lavy!