Islanders Fans, Take A Breath
What's there to be so nervous about?
When the New York Islanders decided they were moving on from Lou Lamoriello, the fan base was optimistic like a gray cloud had cleared.
Nothing has changed since that decision has been made.
Although it is frustrating that we don’t know the franchise’s new direction, proper due diligence is necessary before the Isles commit to this next step. This is particularly true of this ownership group, including Scott Malkin and Jon Ledecky, who have exhibited tremendous patience with both Garth Snow and Lamoriello, allowing them each to stay at their post for a lengthy term.
Let’s talk facts for a second.
The Islanders did not renew Lou Lamoriello’s president and general manager contract. People are flipping pancakes when they see that Lou is still involved right now or they see a video of Lou walking around by Northwell Ice Center.
Don’t be.
Lou wasn’t fired. Yes, sure, semantics, but the wording was that his “contract” wasn’t renewed. That means he’s an employee until his contract ends. The new NHL calendar year begins on July 1— the start of NHL Free Agency.
I’ve been told that, during this time, Lamoriello has been helping to “tie up” loose ends, with John Collins leading the search for a new president and/or general manager.
The Islanders’ scouting department will play a major role in the 2025 NHL Draft as it did back in 2018, even though Lamoriello had come aboard.
One more thing regarding the draft. The Islanders can’t mess this up, regardless of the route they go. They either get a generational defenseman in Matthew Schaefer, who is a few years away from living up to the potential, a point machine in Michael Misa, or the local kid James Hagens, a stud forward who turns the Islanders into a marketing brand, even if his ceiling is not as high as the others.
The wait truly impacts the head coach and contract talks. But, as of now, is there a better coach available than Roy? With the Islanders getting younger over the next few seasons with Calum Ritchie, the top pick, Cole Eiserman, Danny Nelson, Isaiah George, and maybe others on the NHL roster, doesn’t it make sense to have a coach who is used to managing young players?
Roy has a massive amount of experience with youngsters from his days running the QMJHL’s Quebec Remparts.
When it comes to contracts, the RFAs are either going to get qualified or sign small deals to remain with the team. Free agency doesn’t open up until July 1, so there’s time to get all those ducks in a row.
This is a process, and the last thing any of you want to see is Islanders ownership rush to make a decision that will impact the future of this hockey club. The ownership group will let the general manager manage without interference above. That’s what makes this job so fantastic.
So, fans, have some patience, and don’t let any unsourced tweets ruin your day.
Richie is doing his thing in the OHL playoffs, the Isles got the number one pick, and a fresh face will be running this team shortly.
What’s to be nervous about?
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Great Article in reality it’s not taking too long ! They most likely would like to interview a few people that are still engaged in the Playoffs. Especially the two Assistant General Managers in Dallas. Collins is going to be the President and I think that is great! Collins can hire a Cap & Contract Guru to work along side him. Hire young high quality GM talent evaluator. Patrick is going to have a large input. That could be The Holy Trinity. There are no mysteries on what’s going to be done.
1. Matthew Schaffer is the pick. Impressive Dude head and shoulders above the Rest. Scouting Staff has done well Drafting.
2. Collins can do the Contracts with RFA
3. Mitch Marner is Collins responsible lol they may call Mitch and ask who he prefers as GM.
4. I much prefer them to interview everyone no matter how long it takes.
They obviously haven’t found the right guy yet. None of the names have blown me away. We have good hockey people in the front office.
It will get resolved! Most importantly we get Schaffer what a home run! The Future is brighter than any time since the Cup Years. These owners are the best in the history of the franchise.
Stefen, With the scouting department analyzing the draft choices the Isles still need someone to wheel and deal if that's possible. Meaning someone needs to pick a direction Pick a #1 or roll the dice and draft down & take Hagan 2-5. I don't think Ken Morrow wants that responsibility, and perhaps the experience to wheel and deal. Lamoriello was hired by May 22nd giving him a month to look at the scouting reports and he already had contacts he could call for deals. Would you say the deadline for a GM would be May 26 or earlier?