Skip to main content Currently Reading For Capitals' Peter Laviolette, Thursday is the start of a new challenge in just about every way possible Samantha Pell, The Washington Post Jan. 13, 2021 FacebookTwitterEmail Washington Capitals head coach Peter Laviolette, center left, talks to his players during the Washington Capitals practice at the MedStar Capitals Iceplex on Jan. 4, 2021 in Arlington, Va.Washington Post by Ricky Carioti WASHINGTON - When Peter Laviolette walks into Buffalo's KeyBank Center on Thursday night, it will be his first time behind the bench during the coronavirus pandemic. There won't be any fans in the stands, no energy that builds from the moment the doors open to puck drop to the final blare of the horn.