The New York Islanders made a shocking late-season move, firing head coach Patrick Roy with just four games left. The decision, announced by general manager Mathieu Darche, stunned fans across the league.
In the same statement, the Islanders confirmed Peter DeBoer as the new head coach. The sudden switch comes as the team fights to hold its playoff spot after a rough stretch.
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NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported this is not a short-term move, noting DeBoer has agreed to a deal with term. ESPN’s Emily Kaplan added that the team felt goaltender Ilya Sorokin was being exposed and needed a stronger defensive structure.
“Heard NY felt they were leaving Ilya Sorokin exposed and needed better defensive structure,” Kaplan said. “There’s more term than Torts deal so Isles are getting ahead of the cycle before someone else hired DeBoer this summer.”
New York Islanders head coach Patrick Roy walks off the ice at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images
(James Guillory-Imagn Images)
Roy’s tenure lasted just over two seasons after taking over in January 2024. He posted a 97–78–22 record and led the team to a playoff appearance in 2024. However, the Islanders collapsed late this season, losing four straight and seven of their last ten.
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The skid tightened the Metropolitan Division race and forced management into action. Despite a 42-31-5 record, inconsistency and defensive lapses raised concerns at a crucial time.
Fan reaction was immediate and divided.
One supporter celebrated the move, saying, “I havent really saw his track record but we’re free of patrick roy”
Another questioned the hire, claiming, “This guy kills goalies. Sorokin is so screwed.”
“Absolutely insane to do it this late in the season, but it is a big upgrade” A fan wrote.
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“About F’ing time. Now we can only pray/hope that he can instill a playoff run. Fingers crossed,” one fan reacted.
“Literally the whole fan base hates this guy cause how he treated Lehner lmao,” one user wrote.
“Can’t really blame Roy 100%. He got a lot more out of this roster than I had anticipated. Roster needs an overhaul for sure.” A fan said.
Dallas Stars head coach Peter DeBoer watches the game at the American Airlines Center.Via Imagn Images
(Via Imagn Images)
DeBoer returns to the NHL after his exit from the Dallas Stars in 2025. He led Dallas to three straight Western Conference Finals but failed to reach the Stanley Cup Final.
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Now, he steps into a high-pressure role with little time left in the regular season. The Islanders are betting a new voice can steady the team before the playoffs.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.