New York Islanders dismiss Coach Lane Lambert Midseason, appoint Patrick Roy as replacement

The New York Islanders have parted ways with Coach Lane Lambert and welcomed Patrick Roy as their new head coach. The decision was announced on Saturday by President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Lou Lamoriello, emphasizing the need for a change due to the team’s ongoing inconsistency.

Roy, a former NHL coach who has been absent from the league for nearly a decade, has been considered for various coaching positions and now seizes the opportunity to guide the Islanders. Lamoriello expressed his belief that Roy’s aggressive approach and successful track record make him the ideal candidate to lead the team forward.

The Islanders’ recent struggles played a pivotal role in the decision, with the team dropping four consecutive games and six of the last seven, causing them to slip out of a playoff position in the Eastern Conference. Lamoriello, at 81 years old, remains optimistic about the team’s potential to rebound and contend in the playoff race.

Lambert, who was in his second season as head coach, faced challenges in maintaining consistency within the team. Roy, a four-time Stanley Cup champion and former Jack Adams Award winner, brings a wealth of experience both as a player and coach. Lamoriello cited Roy’s assertive presence and success in player development as key factors in choosing him for the job.

While Roy acknowledged his aggressive coaching style, he emphasized his objective to instill consistency in the Islanders’ play. Having spent the past five seasons coaching and serving as GM for the junior Quebec Remparts, Roy brings a fresh perspective to the NHL landscape.

In contrast to his previous coaching stint with the Colorado Avalanche, Roy clarified that he has zero interest in management responsibilities with Lamoriello overseeing personnel decisions. As the fifth coach to be dismissed in the current NHL season, Lambert’s departure marks a significant shift for the Islanders, who now look to Roy to guide them back on track.