Also: We’ve got a rematch in the Cup final. Hope it’s different than 1984.
We met our new GM yesterday, and he did not disappoint. Nice suit. Tasteful lapel pin. Ready to “build our own legacy.”
You can watch the whole thing here, or check various versions of Cliff Notes in the links below.
Islanders News
- Mathieu Darche grew up with the Islanders winning the Cup every year — Mike Bossy was his idol, bless him — and the electricity at the Coliseum when Anthony Beauvillier forced Game 7 left an impression. [NHL]
- He views it as an honor to take over the team. [Isles]
- He’ll keep Roy (but the Lou/Devils assistants are out), will evaluate the assistant GMs, keep the 1st overall pick and overhaul the coaching staff in Bridgeport. [Isles | Post]
- You saw a glimpse of his philosophy, with a focus on player development including the neglected AHL. [Newsday]
- Best: Good first impression from the new guy. [Newsday]
- He also shared an update on Bo Horvat: It’s an ankle injury, expected to be 4-6 weeks, so should not interfere with training camp. [Isles]
- With the cap rising, here are five RFAs that could be trade candidates, including Noah Dobson. [Athletic]
Elsewhere
- We have a Stanley Cup final rematch: Jake Oettinger was bounced after the first two shots, and the Oilers cruised past Dallas in a disappointingly anticlimactic Western final. [NHL]
- Alas, they reach the finals with Zach Hyman on the sideline. [NHL]
- Lane Lambert gets his second chance as an NHL head coach, with the Kraken. [NHL]
- That means the Penguins job may be the last head coach opening; it offers Crosby and a whole host of problems. [Athletic]
- Jonathan Toews continues to aim for a comeback at age 37. [NHL] Winnipeg could be a suitor. [TSN]
- The Leafs will “have to see” about UFA Mitch Marner. I don’t think he’s giving you that option, sir. [TSN]