Former NHL center Nick Bonino has officially announced his retirement from professional hockey and will begin a new chapter as an assistant coach with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The news comes after Bonino’s season with HC Olimpija Ljubljana in Slovenia’s ICEHL, where he had recently re-signed for another year. Instead, he will take on a coaching role under new head coach Dan Muse, marking a return to the Penguins, a team where he enjoyed significant success.
Bonino’s NHL career spanned 16 seasons, during which he played 868 games, collecting a total of 358 points across stops with seven teams, including notable tenures with the Anaheim Ducks, Nashville Predators, and the Penguins. He was particularly impactful during his time in Pittsburgh, contributing to back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2016 and 2017. Bonino’s clutch performances, highlighted by a pivotal series-clinching overtime goal against the Washington Capitals in 2016, cemented his status as a vital player on the team.
Throughout his career, Bonino showcased his skills as a two-way center, consistently contributing to both regular-season and playoff success. He finished his time in the NHL with a +30 rating and ranked among the top players in the league for defensive contributions, indicated by his two top-15 finishes in Selke Trophy voting during his tenure in Nashville.
In his post-playing career, Bonino will have the advantage of already being familiar with Muse, who previously coached him during their time together in Nashville and New York. This continuity may enhance the Penguins’ coaching dynamics as they move forward with fresh strategies for success.
This transition from player to coach signifies an important step in Bonino’s life, and his extensive experience in the league will likely provide valuable insights as he mentors the next generation of players with the Penguins.
Bonino’s legacy in the NHL, marked by his key role in championship runs and consistent offensive production, is a testament to his dedication and talent. As he embarks on this new journey, fans and teammates alike are hopeful that he will bring the same level of commitment and expertise to his coaching role as he did during his playing days.