Predators hire Luke Richardson as assistant coach
A former NHL head coach is staying in the Central Division.
On Tuesday, Nashville Predators general manager Barry Trotz announced the team has hired Like Richardson as the team’s new assistant coach.
Richardson was most recently the head coach of the Chicago Blackhawks. He held the position for over two seasons before being fired this past December after another rough start for the team. In his tenure in the Windy City, the Ottawa native posted a record of 57-118-15, with the Hawks missing the playoffs each year.
Yet, Trotz is confident that Richardson will add an extra element to the Predators bench.
“Luke brings a wealth of NHL experience as both a player and coach to our staff, and we are excited to welcome him and his family to the organization,” Trotz said in a release. “With that experience, we believe he will be a valuable new voice and set of eyes – not just for our defensemen, but for our coaching staff. His strong character, leadership, perspective as a former NHL head coach and ability to connect with both young and veteran players will elevate our team on and off the ice.”
Richardson is taking over the position that was previously held by another former NHL head coach, Todd Richards. Richards had been with the team since the 2021 season.
Prior to joining the Blackhawks, Richardson had served as an assistant coach for the Montreal Canadiens, New York Islanders and Ottawa Senators, along with being the head coach of the Sens’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Binghamton Senators. He joins a coaching staff in Smashville headed by Andrew Brunette, who will enter his third season with the team next year.
“When I think of Luke Richardson – aside from being one of the toughest defensemen to play against during my NHL career – I think of leadership, character and work ethic,” Brunette said. “I’m excited to have him join our coaching staff and feel the different perspective he’ll bring to our defensemen and team in general will make us better.”
The Predators are hoping for a better performance during the 2025-26 season after finishing seventh in the Central this past year.