The Pittsburgh Penguins’ Coaching Lineup
The Pittsburgh Penguins have finalized the coaching lineup under first-year head coach Dan Muse, announcing the addition of several prominent figures to his staff. Among them are former Penguins forward Nick Bonino, who earned a solid reputation during his time with the team, Todd Nelson, the ex-Hershey Bears head coach celebrated in the American Hockey League, Rich Clune, a recent assistant coach for the Anaheim Ducks, and Troy Paquette, who transitions from video coach with the Toronto Marlies to assistant video coach for the Penguins. Goaltending coach Andy Chiodo will continue with the team amidst these changes.
Coaching Staff Highlights
Nick Bonino: A Player’s Insight
Bonino, a key player in the Penguins’ Stanley Cup victories in 2016 and 2017, joins the coaching ranks for the first time. Known for his strategic mind and on-ice leadership, Bonino’s experience as a respected teammate of stars like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin positions him well as a resource for the veterans on the team. His recent connection with Muse—having played under him during their time with the New York Rangers and Nashville Predators—reinforces their compatibility on the coaching staff. Despite the Penguins’ challenging years defensively since Bonino’s departure in 2017, his insights could prove beneficial as he guides the younger players in the squad. Muse expressed his excitement about Bonino’s unmatched understanding of winning at the NHL level and his fit within the organization.
Todd Nelson: A Proven Track Record
Todd Nelson brings over 20 years of coaching experience and was highly esteemed in the AHL, having recently won the 2024 AHL Coach of the Year award. Previously, Nelson had a brief head coaching stint with the Edmonton Oilers and worked as an assistant with teams like the Atlanta Thrashers and Dallas Stars. His extensive experience is crucial to a coaching staff that seeks a balance of guidance and fresh energy. Muse lauded Nelson’s ability to extract peak performance from players and anticipates that he will contribute significantly to establishing a winning culture.
Rich Clune: Toughness and Development
Former NHL player Rich Clune complements the staff with his background as a player development coach and his previous experience with the Los Angeles Kings and Toronto Maple Leafs. Given his ties to Penguins president Kyle Dubas, Clune’s role will focus on instilling toughness in the Penguins’ game. Clune’s rapid rise through coaching ranks and his understanding of the demands at both AHL and NHL levels add depth to the team’s coaching capabilities, making him a promising addition.
Andy Chiodo: Consistency in Goaltending
Though some fans may question the decision to keep Chiodo on as goaltending coach given the struggles of Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic last season, the Penguins stand by him. Despite the goaltending woes being attributed primarily to defensive issues, Chiodo has remained a favorite within the organization, especially after positive developments toward the season’s end.
Troy Paquette: The Video Coach’s Role
Lastly, Troy Paquette’s appointment as assistant video coach is noteworthy, as the role has gained prominence in contemporary NHL strategy. Known for his strong rapport with coaching staff and a solid track record with the Marlies, Paquette’s work is essential for employing video analysis effectively. His continued involvement with the Penguins, beginning in the AHL and now stepping up, brings a valuable asset to the team’s preparation efforts.
Looking Ahead
With these appointments, the Penguins are poised to embark on a new chapter, focusing on strengthening their identity and competitiveness in the league.
