Peter Laviolette III Joins Capitals For Informal Skates; Iorio, Lapierre Reunite

The Washington Capitals are putting in work ahead of training camp, as some members of the organization are taking part in the team’s informal skates before things kick off on Sept. 22. Vincent Iorio returned earlier in the week, taking place alongside best friend Hendrix Lapierre, and also in attendance was another familiar face: Peter Laviolette III.

Per The Athletic’s Tarik El-Bashir, Laviolette III, the son of head coach Peter Laviolette, is skating with the group. He joins Evgeny Kuznetsov, Anthony Mantha, Carl Hagelin, Joe Snively, John Carlson, Nick Jensen, Dmitry Orlov, Alex Alexeyev, Lapierre and Iorio, as well as Hershey Bears signee Sam Anas, free agent and former Capitals winger Brett Connolly and Chevy Chase native Patrick Giles. Giles most recently laced ’em up with Boston College and the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers.

In addition, Laviolette III skated with some of the Capitals last week as they hit the ice for a session with skating coach Wendy Marco. Marco has been Laviolette III’s coach and has also coached several Washington skaters, including T.J. Oshie and Lars Eller.

Laviolette III is coming off his fourth year at Plymouth State University, where he wore the “C.” In 27 games for the Panthers in 2021-22, he dished 11 goals and 15 assists for 26 points. While in D.C., he wears No. 81.

READ MORE ON WHN: After Devastating Eye Injury, Washington Capitals’ Carl Hagelin Changes Visor

At July’s development camp, Laviolette III was among the standouts. He scored some highlight-reel baseball-style goals — which he called ironic, considering he didn’t get too many hits last season at Plymouth State with their baseball team — and showcased his skating ability. Laviolette III also had a goal in the team’s scrimmage at Capital One Arena.

“I know my dad’s the coach and I have the same name and everything, but for me to come and be my own person and show my own skill and play a little bit of hockey and show everybody I can play here is just an honor,” Laviolette III said. “I’ve loved every second.”

His father also enjoyed watching him take the ice while evaluating the team’s prospects.

“You’re watching development camp and you’re watching all your players, but he’s out there. And he did good. He’s looked good out there,” Laviolette said. “…It’s great to see everybody out there, but when you have your son out there, it changes the look on it a little bit. I thought he’s done a good job.”

Meanwhile, Lapierre and Iorio are continuing their bromance as they take the ice together ahead of camp. Both headline the Capitals rookie camp roster so far, and that kicks off on Sept. 15. The first open on-ice session at training camp is on Sept. 22.