For the first time in 25 years—excluding the 2004-05 lockout—Peter Laviolette found himself watching an NHL season from the sidelines. After being let go by the New York Rangers following the 2024-25 campaign, the veteran coach packed his bags for Florida, traded game-day suits for family time, and caught up on hockey from the comfort of his living room.

And honestly? He didn't mind the break one bit.

"It's been good," Laviolette said during a guest appearance on NHL Network's 'First Shift.' "Everyone wants to work, but honestly, I think a break coming out of New York was good."

While the Rangers continue to pay out his contract, Laviolette made the most of his unexpected time off. He watched his son, Peter Jr., suit up for the Orlando Solar Bears and Savannah Ghost Pirates in the ECHL—precious moments he often missed during the grind of an 82-game season. He even traveled to Scotland to visit his daughter and watch her boyfriend compete on a golf tour, with a stop at the legendary St. Andrew's.

"You miss so much in the course of your kids' lives," Laviolette reflected. "Things you just don't get to do during the season."

But don't mistake this rejuvenation for retirement. At 61, Laviolette sounds like a man ready to lace up his skates and get back behind the bench.

"Now, sitting here and watching the playoffs, you just want to get back out there and get after it again," he said. "But we'll see what happens. Sometimes you just take a minute, take a beat and get your mind back on track."

With 846 career wins—seventh all-time among NHL coaches—and 88 postseason victories, Laviolette's resume speaks for itself. He's led three different teams to the Stanley Cup Final and brought the Carolina Hurricanes their only championship. For a coach of his caliber, the question isn't if he'll return, but where.