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
The Maple Leafs removed starting goaltender Anthony Stolarz from Game 1 of their second-round playoff series against the Florida Panthers after he took a hit to the head from Sam…
William Nylander had two goals and an assist, and the Toronto Maple Leafs held on for a 5-4 win against the visiting Florida Panthers in Game 1 of their second-round…
After rallying from a 2-0 deficit to eliminate the Los Angeles Kings in the Western Conference first round, the Edmonton Oilers head to Las Vegas to take on the Pacific…
Maple Leafs start series strong with win over Panthers
Oilers have revenge in mind in second-round series vs. Golden Knights
Macklin Celebrini, Lane Hutson, Dustin Wolf finalists for Calder
Islanders land No. 1 pick in NHL draft lottery