The New York Islanders fired coach Barry Trotz on Monday, parting ways with the former Stanley Cup winner after missing the playoffs in Trotz’s fourth season with the team.
The decision to move on came as a surprise as Trotz had led the Islanders to three straight playoff appearances before this past season — including back-to-back appearances in the Eastern Conference final. The Islanders lost to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay Lightning in those series.
Trotz joined the Islanders in 2018-19 after winning a championship with the Washington Capitals. The Capitals chose not to renegotiate Trotz’s contract following the Stanley Cup, letting Trotz hit the market. In four seasons, Trotz led the Islanders to a 152-102 record (49-28 in the playoffs).
He had one year left on his contract.
“It would be a tremendous understatement to say this was not an easy decision,” Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello said on a conference call. “Unfortunately it is my role to make the best decisions for the organization. … I believe this group of players needs a new voice.”
The Islanders went 37-35-10 this past season. They had a chaotic season, missing multiple players throughout the season because of injuries and COVID-19. The team also started the year on a 13-game road trip while their new arena was being finished.
If Trotz decides to pursue another coaching job in the offseason, he’ll likely be a hot commodity. Trotz ranks third all-time in coaching wins with 914 wins. Besides the Islanders, Trotz spent 15 seasons with the Nashville Predators and four with the Washington Capitals.
• This story is based in parts on wire reports.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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