Peter Laviolette Set to Become Head Coach of the LA Kings

LOS ANGELES (AP) — According to a source familiar with the situation, Peter Laviolette is poised to take on the role of head coach for the Los Angeles Kings. The insider, who spoke on the condition of anonymity as the Kings have yet to formally announce their decision, indicated that the franchise's extensive search for a permanent successor to interim coach D.J. Smith has concluded.

Laviolette, 61, is anticipated to sign a three-year deal, marking the beginning of his tenure with his seventh NHL team. The Kings have enjoyed playoff appearances for five consecutive years, but have faced frustration with five successive exits in the first round, cycling through three head coaches and two general managers during this period.

This change comes as Laviolette returns to the NHL after being dismissed by the New York Rangers in April 2025. His coaching career, spanning over 23 years, includes stints with the New York Islanders, Carolina Hurricanes, Philadelphia Flyers, Nashville Predators, and Washington Capitals, highlighted by a Stanley Cup victory with the Hurricanes in 2006. Laviolette has led his teams to the playoffs in 11 of the last 14 seasons and has coached 1,594 games, ranking ninth in NHL history.

As he embarks on his first coaching position on the West Coast, Laviolette takes over a talented Kings roster that is struggling to find its footing as a Stanley Cup contender. General manager Ken Holland dismissed former coach Jim Hiller shortly after the Olympic break last season. Under interim coach Smith, the Kings achieved an 11-6-6 record and secured the final playoff spot in the Western Conference, only to be swept by the Colorado Avalanche in the first round.

Despite not winning a playoff series since their 2014 championship, the Kings possess a strong group of players, including high-scoring forwards Artemi Panarin, Adrian Kempe, Quinton Byfield, and Kevin Fiala. Laviolette is known for his aggressive offensive strategies and his ability to quickly revitalize teams, which could signal a shift for the Kings, who have historically prioritized defense. The team finished a disappointing 29th in scoring last season, raising questions about their approach following a poor offensive showing against the Avalanche.