Islanders Make Coaching Change Amidst Playoff Push
In a significant shake-up, the New York Islanders have parted ways with head coach Lane Lambert. The team's management has decided to bring in Patrick Roy as his replacement, hoping to inject new life into their quest for a playoff berth. As the Islanders currently trail the Detroit Red Wings by two points for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, the timing of this change is critical.
The decision comes on the heels of a disappointing four-game losing streak and a stretch where the Islanders have managed only two victories in their last ten outings. Lambert's tenure with the Islanders lasted less than two seasons, during which he initially served as an associate coach for four years before taking the helm.
Lambert's record was marred by inconsistency, highlighted by a seven-game losing streak in November and a troubling trend that saw the team concede more than four goals per game recently. His future with the organization had been a subject of speculation, especially after a disheartening 4-3 overtime loss to the Chicago Blackhawks.
Roy Returns to NHL Coaching
Patrick Roy, renowned for his illustrious playing career and previous coaching stint with the Colorado Avalanche, makes his return to NHL coaching after several years. Roy, who won the Jack Adams Award with the Avalanche, has not coached in the NHL since the 2015-16 season. Following his departure from Colorado, he took the reins of the Quebec Remparts in the QMJHL, leading them to four playoff appearances in five seasons, including a QMJHL title and a Memorial Cup victory.
Roy's debut as the Islanders' coach is anticipated to be against the Dallas Stars at UBS Arena. Known for his aggressive presence, Roy is expected to address the Islanders' defensive woes. The team currently allows the second-most shot attempts and the third-most scoring chances and high-danger scoring chances per 60 minutes in the league.
Management and Players on Coaching Change
The Islanders' management expressed a need for change due to "the inconsistency that has been going on for some period of time." In discussing the hiring of Roy, they conveyed confidence in his abilities, stating, "When I had the opportunity to meet with Patrick recently, I felt that this was the best for our organization to go forward." They also added, "I thought he was the right person for the job."
Roy himself has set clear objectives upon taking over the coaching duties. "One of my objectives will be to bring some consistency to their play," Roy stated, addressing the issues that have plagued the team. He also hinted at avoiding distractions, saying, "I know what you’re probably alluding to, but we don’t want that. We want to come out and start playing hockey. At the end of the day, it’s on us."
The players have acknowledged their role in the team's performance as well. With the coaching change now a reality, they emphasized their responsibility: "It’s just on us as players."
Looking Ahead
The Islanders face a crucial juncture in their season. With the playoffs in sight, the arrival of Patrick Roy represents a new chapter and a renewed hope for a franchise in desperate need of stability and success. The team's ability to adapt to Roy's coaching style and philosophy will be pivotal as they strive to secure a spot in the postseason and make a deep run. As the Islanders embark on this transition, the eyes of the hockey world will be watching closely to see if this storied goaltender turned coach can once again find success behind the bench in the NHL.