It will be interesting to see how he fares as he's closer to a 1st time head coach than an experience head coach. The Preds are similar to the Flames in that they have a lot of money tied up in players at or nearing their 30's but they did have a fantastic trade deadline with 7 picks in the first three rounds of what looks like a solid draft and are primed to pick twice again in the 2024 first round as well. They could do a Kings style retool if some of these picks turn out and get into the NHL in a couple of seasons. The test for Brunette is if he will be able to keep them competitive enough in the meantime to keep his job.
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