NASHVILLE (AP) — The Nashville Predators rounded out Andrew Brunette's coaching staff Thursday by hiring Derek MacKenzie as an assistant coach.

Barry Trotz, who takes over as the general manager officially July 1, announced the hiring. Brunette worked with MacKenzie as an assistant with the Florida Panthers between 2019-2022, including 2021-22 when the Panthers won the Presidents' Trophy with Brunette as interim coach much of the season.

Brunette said he's excited to reunite with MacKenzie in Nashville.

"Having worked closely with him on an NHL bench before, I've been fortunate enough to see his leadership qualities firsthand and know he will develop strong connections and relationships with our players and staff," Brunette said.

MacKenzie, 42, played 611 games over 16 NHL seasons in Atlanta, Columbus and Florida.

While with Columbus, current Predators assistant Todd Richards was his head coach for three seasons and Predators assistant Dan Hinote an assistant for four. MacKenzie played with Predators center Ryan Johansen for three seasons.

MacKenzie spent last season as head coach of the OHL Sudbury Wolves.

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