The New York Islanders didn’t make the playoffs this season, but they’re clearly happy with the work interim coach Doug Weight did after he took over for Jack Capuano.
On Wednesday morning, the Islanders officially removed the interim tag from Weight’s title and named him head coach of their hockey club.
Since taking over for Capuano on Jan. 17, Weight and the Islanders posted the second-best record in the NHL with 24 wins and 52 points in 40 games. Unfortunately for them, they still fell one point shy of making the playoffs.
“Doug has earned this opportunity from the tremendous work he has put in over the past five seasons in our front office and especially from the time he took over as interim head coach earlier this season,” president and general manager Garth Snow said in a release. “His leadership and experiences from both playing and behind the bench are valuable intangibles that not every coach can translate into a winning formula. He’s gained the trust and respect from our entire team, making him the best choice to become head coach.”
Weight will continue serving as Garth Snow’s assistant GM.
Now that they’ve made one big decision, the Isles can focus their attention on re-signing franchise center John Tavares and finding a new arena.
I would also expect some clarity in coming days/weeks on NYI long-term arena/home issue. All signs pointing towards the Belmont, NY, site.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) April 12, 2017