Brunette Returns to Predators After Two-Game Absence

Nashville Predators head coach Andrew Brunette has returned to the team after a two-game absence due to a family matter involving his father's urgent medical attention in Ontario. He expressed gratitude towards the team's ownership and staff for their support during his time away. Brunette missed the Predators' loss to the Montreal Canadiens and their overtime win against the New York Islanders, where assistant coach Todd Richards filled in. The Predators have struggled this season, clinching one of the worst records in the NHL, with Brunette's leadership facing challenges as they aim to improve their performance in the remaining games. Brunette, who was previously a finalist for the NHL's coach of the year award, now seeks to guide his team back to better form as they prepare to face the Utah Hockey Club. Overall, the Predators have lost six of their last seven games.