Islanders GM Mathieu Darche Retains Coach Patrick Roy After Missed Playoffs

Mathieu Darche, the new general manager of the New York Islanders, has confirmed that Patrick Roy will remain the team's head coach despite a disappointing 35-35-12 record in the 2024-25 season. Darche expressed strong confidence in Roy, highlighting his past success and passion, and is aligning with Roy on the team's future direction. Significant changes are underway in the coaching staff, with longtime assistants John MacLean, Tommy Albelin, and AHL coach Rick Kowalsky being let go, while Benoit Desrosiers, who has a history with Roy, is being retained. Darche is also restructuring the Islanders' development camp schedule to better prepare for the upcoming NHL Draft. The organization is undergoing broader transitions following the departure of Lou Lamoriello as president and general manager, with Darche taking full control over hockey operations and considering Lamoriello's potential advisory role. These moves signal a new chapter for the Islanders as they seek to rebound and improve their performance.