The Islanders fired coach Barry Trotz on Monday, ending his run of four seasons behind the bench in New York.
Trotz posted a record of 152-102 and was 28-21 in the playoffs with the Islanders.
The Islanders went to the conference finals in back-to-back seasons before missing the postseason in 2021-22.
Due to stadium construction, the Islanders began the season with 13 consecutive road games. Upon their return, a COVID outbreak decimated the lineup. The Islanders finished fifth in the Metro Division.
“It would be a tremendous understatement to say this was not an easy decision,” general manager Lou Lamoriello said Monday. “Unfortunately it is my role to make the best decisions for the organization.”
Lamoriello declined to expand on why he made the move, but confirmed he did not consult with players or anyone in the organization before making the call.
“This group of players needs a new voice,” he said.
Lamoriello, 79, has not been shy about making drastic changes in his career. However, Trotz was not thought to be in danger of losing his job. He had one year remaining on his contract.
The 59-year-old Trotz has 914 career victories in 23 seasons with Nashville (1998-2014), Washington (2014-18) and the Islanders.
–Field Level Media
