The move aims to shift Los Angeles from a defense-first approach toward stronger offense, as the Kings finished last season with 220 goals and five straight first-round exits in five playoff appearances.

Main photo credit goes to Matt Kartozian/USA TODAY Sports.

The hire comes amid ongoing questions about the Kings’ defensive philosophy and its ability to translate playoff appearances into deep postseason runs.

A formal announcement from the Kings was anticipated within days after reports of the agreement.

Laviolette is expected to balance veteran leadership with developing the Kings’ young core for sustained success.

Toronto’s coaching search is narrowing to about five candidates, with in-person interviews planned, illustrating a broader market for experienced mentors.

The coaching move fits a broader win-now or retooling market, with potential further developments after the Stanley Cup Final.

The article is attributed to Field Level Media.

The hire is viewed as a step to improve regular-season performance and postseason success for 2026-27, though roster issues like center depth and Kopitar-era restructuring remain.

The Los Angeles Kings have hired veteran NHL coach Peter Laviolette to lead their bench, replacing interim coach D.J. Smith after the team fired Jim Hiller in early March.

Laviolette brings a playoff-rich résumé, with 14 seasons of postseason appearances, a recent Eastern Conference final run with the Rangers, and three Stanley Cup Final appearances, including a 2005-06 championship with the Hurricanes.

The report notes this is a developing story and will be updated as details emerge.