It wasn't more than a couple of weeks ago that Lou Lamoriello shocked the hockey world when he announced Barry Trotz was relieved of his duties. The Islanders' GM has a history of bold coaching dismissals, but this one was universally criticized. Barry Trotz is the third-winningest head coach ever & is a perennial Jack Adams contender for NHL's best coach. The decision to part ways with Trotz reportedly stemmed from the desire for a new voice in the room.
While it isn't exactly a new voice, the Islanders today announced that Lane Lambert will assume the Head Coaching role on the Island:
A longtime assistant of Barry Trotz, Lambert was rumored to have a ton of interest around the NHL for various Head Coaching occupancies. Lamoriello wasn't interested in allowing Lambert to walk, and he seems to believe that Lambert possesses the ability to get the Isles' offensive game up to snuff. It's been rumored that the relationship between Mat Barzal & Trotz became strained, however as one would expect Lamoriello denied that as a reason for Trotz' dismissal.
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Ironically enough, Lambert takes the reins when the Islanders have the 13th overall draft selection. And Lambert's nephew, Brad, happens to be a top prospect in this summer's NHL Draft. Lambert is 8th on Central Scouting's Prospect Ranking, so it isn't likely he's even available when the Islanders make their pick. But it would be cool to see.
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