Former Blackhawks Head Coach Hired by Division Rival

In over two seasons as the Blackhawks' head coach, Richardson amassed a 57-118-15 record behind Chicago's bench. Richardson was brought in amidst a rebuild that saw Chicago tear its roster down to the studs. Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson fired Richardson 26 games into the 2024-25 season after starting the season with an 8-16-2 record. 

Richardson's special teams units struggled during his time in Chicago. In his two full seasons as head coach, the Blackhawks' power play ranked 28th both years. The penalty kill struggled as well, ranking 23rd and 28th, respectively. 

Prior to being hired as Chicago's head coach in 2022, Richardson served as an assistant coach for the Ottawa Senators, New York Islanders, and Montreal Canadiens for eight seasons. He also spent four seasons as the head coach of the Binghamton Senators of the American Hockey League. 

Predators head coach Andrew Brunette had this to say of Richardson. "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. 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. We're looking forward to welcoming the former NHL captain and his family to the Predators and getting to work on next season."