In the 24 hours subsequent to Jack Capuano‘s firing, the Islanders have already spoken to Gerard Gallant and the search is now underway. Here are five of the best options on the market for the Islanders’ vacant coaching position.
Front office overhaul
It’s no secret that the New York Islanders are looking to improve their front office leadership.After seeing George McPhee depart for the Vegas Golden Knights’ general manager position, the Islanders are short on notable executives.
News broke in December, when Arthur Staple of Newsday reported it, that the Islanders were seeking a “big name executive” to become the new team president. Ending that search in a hire would end GM Garth Snow’s dual role as both president and GM. Snow was named team president when he was named GM. It appears that he will only have one of those titles at season’s end.
Having a head coaching vacancy adds even more uncertainty at the organizational helm. Interim Doug Weight has had a long and successful career within the NHL as a player-turned-coach. He has an exclusive bond with John Tavares, having played with him when Tavares first entered the league. However, there are some pretty accomplished options out there. Is Weight the long-term answer, or is he just keeping someone’s seat warm?
Here are five potential candidates:
