Nashville Predators extend contract of head coach Peter Laviolette.

Predators re-sign coach Peter Laviolette, Blackhawks could split up Patrick Kane & Artemi Panarin & more in your NHL morning headlines.

For all of last night’s preseason scores, head to NHL.com. 

THE TENNESSEAN: The Nashville Predators announced Saturday they’ve extended the contract of head coach Peter Laviolette by two years, stretching through 2020-21. Since joining the Predators in 2014, the Predators have advanced to the playoffs twice while significantly improving their offensive performance. 

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Given the Predators record over the last two seasons, it’s not surprising they extended Laviolette’s contract. 

CHICAGO TRIBUNE:  Blackhawks coach Joel Quenneville might consider splitting up forwards Patrick Kane and Artemi Panarin to ensure more offensive balance through the lineup. 

SPECTOR’S NOTE: Quenneville didn’t say that was definitely going to happen or that it’s a permanent thing, only that it’s something he’s looking at for training camp. 

TWINCITIES.COM: The Minnesota Wild’s top line to open this season could consist of left wing Zach Parise, center Eric Staal and right wing Charlie Coyle. 

STLTODAY.COM:  The St. Louis Blues are still hopeful forward Vladimir Sobotka can find a way to get out of his KHL contract for the upcoming season. The Blues aren’t allowed to buy out any part of his KHL deal. 

THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER:  Pittsburgh Penguins winger Carl Hagelin sold his Newport Beach house for $1.91 million. 

CSN BAY AREA: San Jose Sharks prospect Timo Meier will be sidelined four weeks by mononucleosis.