In a shocking development just weeks after the Florida Panthers captured their second consecutive Stanley Cup, head coach Paul Maurice has made the stunning decision to bring back former Panthers bench boss Andrew Brunette — this time in a key leadership role.
The announcement comes on the heels of Brunette’s resignation from his head coaching post with the Nashville Predators, a position he had held since May 2023.
Maurice Issues Statement:
Andrew’s impact on this franchise was significant,” said Maurice at a press conference Tuesday morning. “He was part of building the identity that we carried into this championship run. When I learned of his decision to leave Nashville, I knew there was a seat here for him — not just because of his history, but because of his mind, his leadership, and his heart.”
Brunette is expected to return to the Panthers in a prominent associate coaching role, with responsibilities that may include player development, offensive strategy, and power play oversight — a similar role to the one he held in New Jersey prior to his head coaching job
Brunette, 51, initially joined the Florida Panthers as an assistant in 2019 before taking over as interim head coach in 2021, following the resignation of Joel Quenneville. Under Brunette, the Panthers posted a franchise-best 58–18–6 regular season and claimed the Presidents’ Trophy.
Despite the team’s playoff struggles that year, Brunette was a Jack Adams Award finalist and widely credited with helping unlock the team’s offensive potential. When the Panthers instead turned to Paul Maurice in June 2022, Brunette departed to explore other opportunities.
In a statement released through his agent Tuesday morning, Brunette said:
“Florida is where I grew as a coach, and I’ve always carried the organization and its fans with me. I’m grateful to Paul, Bill Zito, and the ownership group for this opportunity to return to a place that feels like home.”
Coaching Carousel: What This Means
Brunette’s return raises speculation about the future leadership direction of the Panthers. While there are no indications that Maurice is stepping down, analysts suggest this move could signal a long-term succession plan — or, at the very least, strengthen the bench as the Panthers aim for a historic three-peat.
Meanwhile, the Nashville Predators are now in the midst of a sudden coaching search, just weeks before the opening of training camp.
developing story, including reactions from players, the Nashville front office, and league officials.
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