Brent Peterson of the Predators passes away at 68
Former NHL player and Predators coach Brent Peterson dies at age 68 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease.
Quick answers
How long did Brent Peterson play in the NHL?
Brent Peterson played 11 seasons in the NHL, competing with teams like the Detroit Red Wings and Buffalo Sabres, accumulating 72 goals and 213 points in 620 games.
What did Brent Peterson do after his playing career?
After retiring from playing, Brent Peterson transitioned to coaching, starting with the Hartford Whalers and later serving as an assistant coach for the Nashville Predators.
Brent Peterson’s legacy in hockey
Brent Peterson, a former NHL player and beloved figure in the Nashville hockey community, has died at the age of 68. The Nashville Predators announced his passing on Friday, confirming he had been battling Parkinson’s Disease since his diagnosis in 2002.
Peterson’s NHL career spanned 11 seasons, during which he played for the Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, Vancouver Canucks, and Hartford Whalers. He recorded 72 goals and 213 points in 620 games. Following his time as a player, he dedicated himself to coaching and broadcasting.
Coaching and community contributions
After retiring from playing, Peterson began his coaching career with the Hartford Whalers as an assistant coach under Rick Ley. He later moved to the WHL’s Portland Winter Hawks where he enjoyed significant success, including three division titles and a Memorial Cup victory in 1998.
With the NHL’s expansion to Nashville in 1998, Peterson joined the Predators as an assistant coach under Barry Trotz. He remained with the team until 2011, impacting the careers of many players during his tenure.
A battle with Parkinson’s Disease
In addition to his coaching work, Peterson became an advocate for those living with Parkinson’s. He founded the Peterson Foundation for Parkinson’s in 2009 to improve the quality of life for patients and families affected by the disease.
The Predators highlighted Peterson’s positive spirit, stating that he approached life with humor and resilience throughout his lengthy battle with the disease.
Remembering a hockey ambassador
Brent Peterson is survived by his wife Tami, son Brad, and daughter Kristen. The Nashville Predators expressed their condolences, stressing that he will forever be a cherished member of their organization.
Peterson left an indelible mark on the hockey community both on and off the ice. His legacy as a player, coach, and advocate will continue to inspire future generations.
Reporting for this story draws on Daily Faceoff, Sportsnet.
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