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Nick Bonino's new coaching role already making an important impact for Penguins
Penguins assistant coach Nick Bonino has transitioned perfectly from player to behind the bench, and the team is seeing important results from this.
In a small-scale practice a few months ago, Nick Bonino was standing at the blue line with a whistle in his hands, refereeing a Penguins battle for control of the puck.
When he blew the whistle to end a particular drill, Evgeni Malkin was the quickest to complain to Bonino about the end of the activity. This is a new world for Bonino, who, at age 37, has taken the transition to being the assistant coach for Dan Muse in stride.
"It's a lot different, but it's a lot the same, as well," Bonino said. "Obviously a different role, but you're in the game, you're close to the action. I'm learning a lot from all the coaches on our staff, which has been such a huge benefit for me this year. It's nice knowing guys, as well. It makes it a bit easier to come in and be myself right away."
What Nick Bonino did as a player with the Penguins
Bonino's playing career is no secret: two Stanley Cup championships in Pittsburgh, a prominent spot on the HBK line, and his gritty play that even extended to suiting up for the 2017 Finals with a broken fibula.
His relationship with Muse originated back when both were in Nashville, and when Muse became the head coach of the Penguins in June, Bonino became a coach on staff just a short while later, when he left his duties in Slovenia.
The adjustment to coaching has been massive, particularly the hours. Bonino studies videotape, analyses the Penguins' breakdowns and how they enter the zone, then tells guys what they need to do.
Why the Penguins players like Nick Bonino as a coach
The players have reacted positively. Connor Dewar appreciates the insight he brings to the penalty kill, Kris Letang the passion he brings to the table, while Erik Karlsson likes the fact that the approachable personality Bonino displayed during his playing days has remained the same.
"I think he's doing a terrific job with being himself, which is why everybody loved him to begin with," Karlsson said. "He hasn't changed his approach or his mindset. He's a very sharp guy."
Muse knew Bonino had the skills to succeed as a coach. The learning comes with the season, but the instincts Bonino possesses in the game to convey information effectively to their players to gain their trust make him a welcome addition to the Penguins' coaching staff.
He's the same person, but with a whistle in his hands instead of a stick.
Previously on HockeyUnplugged
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 6 | 62 ANSWERS Nick Bonino's new coaching role already making an important impact for Penguins Is Nick Bonino a good coach? | ||
| Yes | 56 | 90.3 % |
| No | 6 | 9.7 % |
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