The Washington Capitals’ search for a head coach is complete. The team named Peter Laviolette as the franchise’s 19th head coach.
The Capitals fired first-time head coach Todd Reirden on Aug. 23 after two seasons.
Laviolette has 18 years of head coaching experience, coaching in 1,210 games with a record of 637-425-25. He has coached four teams during his career, guiding three to the Stanley Cup Final, winning the Cup in 2006 with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Most recently, he led the Nashville Predators to the 2017 Stanley Cup Final. He also guided the Philadelphia Flyers to the Final in 2010.
“I’m thankful and excited for the opportunity to lead this hockey club,” Laviolette said in a statement. “This is a winning organization with high expectations. I look forward to coaching this tremendous group of players and bringing my experience and vision to the team.”
The Capitals are paying Laviolette just over $4 million per year, according to Pierre LeBrun of TSN.
Laviolette was fired by the Predators in January as the team was on the cusp of missing the playoffs. With a year remaining on his contract, Washington was granted permission to interview Laviolette.
The Capitals also reportedly interviewed Mike Babcock and Gerard Gallant
