The man who stands cast in bronze overlooking Broadway in front of Bridgestone Arena will continue to be employed by the Nashville Predators.
Pekka Rinne was hired as the team’s European development coach and scout, the team announced Monday. He was a special advisor last season.
The former goalie spent his entire 15-year career with the Predators, appearing in 772 games and winning 414, including the regular season and playoffs. The 2018 Vezina Trophy winner is also the only player in franchise history to have his number retired.
Rinne will be based primarily in his native Finland in his new role but will work with all goalies in the organization as well as alongside Predators goalie coach Ben Vanderklok.
“We pride ourselves on being an organization full of great people, and none are better than Pekka Rinne,” incoming Predators general manager Barry Trotz said. “We are thrilled to have him continue his legacy with our franchise in this new, expanded role. As we continue to grow and develop our entire hockey operations department, Pekka’s experience, expertise and presence leaves us no doubt that he will be a valuable resource for our team moving forward, especially in our efforts abroad.”
Rinne, a four-time All-Star, retired in July 2021 as the franchise’s all-time leader in games played (683), wins (369), goals-against average (2.43), time on ice (39,413:29), shutouts (60) and saves (17,627).
Rinne, along with Predators captain Roman Josi, are scheduled to announce together the team’s second first-round pick Wednesday night at the NHL Draft at Bridgestone Arena.
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This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville Predators hire Pekka Rinne as European coach, scout