The Washington Capitals will have some free agents to tie down this summer, with almost all of the defence needing a new deal. Another key member of the Capitals, head coach Peter Laviolette, will also see his contract expire at the end of this season. As always with contracts, it remains to be seen what will happen in the summer. However, Washington seems confident in what the outcome will be with Laviolette.
Washington Capitals Hope to Sign Peter Laviolette Soon
According to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, following a recent interview with Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan, he believes Laviolette will be returning to D.C. next year. He is also certain the deal will be wrapped up before the season ends.
“He’s done a good job for us,” MacLellan said in his interview. “We had a discussion at the end of last season. I think we’re both on the same page. I don’t see any problems going forward.”
Laviolette joined the Capitals in September 2020, replacing Todd Reirden. Previously, he had been the head coach for the New York Islanders, Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers and Nashville Predators.
What Does This Mean?
So far, Laviolette’s reign has been a positive one. In 143 games coached with the team, he has a winning record of 82-44-0-17. In his first season, the Caps finished second in their temporary Eastern Division. The following season back in the Metropolitan resulted in a fourth-place finish.
The Massachusetts native won the Stanley Cup with the Hurricanes, plus took Philadelphia and Nashville to the finals. Washington has yet to miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs, they have not progressed past the first round.
Laviolette’s playoff record could improve. However, he is working with an aging core and MacLellan seems to acknowledge this. The Caps need new prospects and a good coach to bleed them in. Laviolette has experience and a strong winning pedigree, so could easily land himself a new long-term deal. If MacLellan can indeed lock him in before the season end, he is a strong candidate to help with the club’s transition.
Capitals coach Peter Laviolette’s message to young players: “Training camp is here. Make some noise. Earn something.” pic.twitter.com/BHBLbnfzwM
— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) September 22, 2022
