With the Philadelphia Flyers coming off one of their most successful seasons in a decade, it comes as no surprise that Peter Laviolette was selected to be one of the coaches for the All-Star Game on Jan. 30. It's also no coincidence that the Flyers seem to be having an even better year this year, which is Laviolette's first full season with Philadelphia.
Peter Laviolette came to a struggling Philadelphia Flyers team on Dec. 4, 2009, when the Flyers made a not-so-surprising move and relieved John Stevens of his duties. The Flyers were struggling mightily. Injuries were piling up, and the wins just weren't coming for a team who had just traded for arguably one of the best defensemen in the league, Chris Pronger. The Flyers needed to make a big change, and Peter Laviolette was their answer.
Peter's first month or two was a bit shaky, as the Flyers were learning all new systems of play, but sure enough, the wins started coming in. The Flyers squeezed into the playoffs, and, well, the rest is history, literally. Although the Flyers didn't bring home the Cup, there was much to be taken away from it all, and there is no question Laviolette played a major factor in their success.
The Flyers lead the Eastern Conference with 57 points in 41 games, and have a points percentage of .695. The coaches with the highest totals in each conference are selected coach the All-Star Game, and this year, Laviolette's Flyers just so happen to meet those requirements. When asked how he felt about being named a co-coach, Peter had this to say, courtesy of the Philadelphia Flyers' official website:
“I’m not sure how it will play out with the players in there," said Laviolette. "It’ll be fun. I’ve never been to one before so it will be fun. More than anything I think my spot there is the reflection of the organization and the players and their commitment to being successful. I’m grateful for that.”
What makes this game even more interesting is the fact that Chicago Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville will be the head coach of the other All-Star team. This is the makings of a very fun, and intense game. January 30 can't come soon enough!
Joanna Krupa Ashley Olsen Danneel Harris Veronika Vaeková Eve
No comments:
Post a Comment