The Los Angeles Kings are considering Peter Laviolette as a potential head coach amid their search, with the former New York Rangers coach alongside Jay Woodcroft and interim coach D.J. Smith as candidates. Laviolette, who took the 2025-26 season off after being let go by the Rangers, has a strong postseason history, having led multiple teams deep into the playoffs. The Kings are looking for a steady hand after struggling in the first round for five consecutive seasons and will need a coach who can manage the challenges of their upcoming season without veteran Anze Kopitar.

By the Numbers
  • Peter Laviolette has reached the playoffs in 13 of his 21 NHL seasons as a head coach.
  • Los Angeles Kings finished just four points shy of the playoffs in the last season.
State of Play
  • The Kings have failed to progress past the first round in each of the last five playoffs.
  • Competition in the Pacific Division, particularly from improving teams like the San Jose Sharks, is intensifying.
What's Next

As the coaching search progresses, both the Kings and Maple Leafs will weigh Laviolette's experience against other candidates, potentially leading to a hiring decision before the upcoming season. Factors such as his past successes and the Kings' roster changes will play significant roles in the outcome.

Bottom Line

Peter Laviolette's extensive playoff experience and previous ability to rejuvenate struggling teams make him a strong candidate for the Kings, who need a tested leader as they navigate life post-Kopitar and seek to end their streak of first-round exits.