Islanders Make Coaching Change Amidst Struggles
In a significant shake-up, the New York Islanders have parted ways with head coach Lane Lambert after a tenure of less than two seasons. The decision comes as the team struggles to find its footing in the current NHL season, sitting just two points shy of the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference and mired in a four-game losing streak.
The Islanders' recent form has been concerning, with only two victories in their last ten outings. This slump has prompted the organization to look for new leadership behind the bench, turning to a familiar face in hockey circles: Patrick Roy. Known for his fiery presence both as a Hall-of-Fame goaltender and as a head coach, Roy is set to take the reins in an attempt to steer the Islanders back on course.
Roy's Return to NHL Coaching
This appointment marks Roy's first return to NHL coaching since he helmed the Colorado Avalanche during the 2015-16 season. His time with the Avalanche was highlighted by winning the Jack Adams Award, given annually to the NHL's top coach. Following his stint in Colorado, Roy took his expertise back to the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL), where he coached the Quebec Remparts to four playoff appearances in five seasons, including a QMJHL title and a Memorial Cup victory.
Roy's debut as head coach of the Islanders could potentially come against the Dallas Stars at UBS Arena, setting the stage for what many hope will be the beginning of a turnaround for the franchise.
Defensive Woes Under Lambert
Lambert's tenure with the Islanders, which included four seasons as an associate coach before being promoted to head coach, ultimately saw the team make a playoff appearance. However, they were ousted in the first round by the Carolina Hurricanes. The Islanders' performance, particularly on the defensive end, has raised concerns this season. They rank near the bottom of the league in several defensive categories, allowing the second-most shot attempts, the third-most scoring chances, and the third-most high-danger scoring chances per 60 minutes.
The team's defensive frailties have been part of a broader narrative of inconsistency, which has plagued them for some time. Under Lambert's recent guidance, the Islanders have conceded more than four goals per game on average. A dismal end to the year 2023, which culminated in a loss on New Year’s Eve, was followed by eight defeats in the subsequent ten games, casting further doubt on Lambert's future as head coach—a doubt that materialized fully after a 4-3 overtime loss to the Chicago Blackhawks.
Management's Perspective
The change in leadership reflects the management's desire for stability and consistency. In discussing the decision, an executive highlighted the "inconsistency that has been going on for some period of time" as a driving factor behind the coaching change. Upon meeting with Patrick Roy, it became clear to the organization that he was the right person to instill the desired aggressive presence and bring about the necessary consistency in play.
Roy's Vision for the Islanders
Roy himself has acknowledged the need for consistency, stating that one of his objectives will be to foster steady performance from the team. Addressing potential concerns about his well-known intensity, Roy emphasized the importance of focusing on playing hockey and avoiding distractions. He conveyed a message of accountability, suggesting that the responsibility for turning the season around rests with the players as much as with the coaching staff.
The Islanders' locker room seems to echo this sentiment, with players acknowledging the role they must play in the team's fortunes. The consensus is clear: improvement is necessary, and everyone within the organization bears a part in achieving it.
As the Islanders embark on this new chapter, all eyes will be on Patrick Roy to see if he can translate his previous coaching successes to his new role in New York. With the team teetering on the edge of playoff contention, the remainder of the season will be a true test of whether this bold move can galvanize the Islanders towards a strong finish.