"Definitely at the NHL level, Peter Laviolette. I worked with him in both Nashville and New York. He gave me my first opportunity in the NHL-something I'll always be grateful for. I learned a ton from him, especially how he delegates and manages staff. Seeing that firsthand in two different organizations taught me a lot that I'll carry with me.
Then there's Keith Allain. I worked with him for six years at Yale. He gave me a great opportunity, and we had success together. He had prior experience in the NHL as an assistant in Washington and St. Louis, so learning from him was invaluable.
Also, Red Gendron-he passed a few years ago, but he was a great mentor to me while I was at Yale. He later coached at Maine and had NHL experience, including a Stanley Cup win in New Jersey. Being able to learn from both Keith and Red, especially as a young coach, meant a lot. I took a great deal from both of them."