The New York Islanders are making organizational changes after a disappointing 2024–25 NHL season. In this context, the team led by star Matt Martin has announced a new general manager, a former executive with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
For Martin and the Islanders, the offseason presents a new opportunity to rebuild. The New York franchise finished with a record of 35 wins, 35 losses, and 12 overtime losses, placing sixth in the Metropolitan Division and missing the playoffs for the first time since the 2021–22 season.
Days after falling short of making the league postseason, the Islanders made the final decision to part ways with President and General Manager Lou Lamoriello in late April. That move kicked off an intensive search to fill the role.
Who will be the Islanders’ new general manager?
The Islanders’ new general manager is none other than Mathieu Darche, who will also serve as the franchise’s Executive Vice President, solidifying his leadership in the team’s hockey operations. His selection comes after a thorough search process.
Mathieu Darche of the Tampa Bay Lightning celebrates with the Stanley Cup following the victory over the Montreal Canadiens in Game Five of the 2021 NHL Stanley Cup Final
Darche previously served as assistant general manager and director of hockey operations for the Lightning. His name rose to the top in a competitive hiring process that included other notable executives from around the league.
see also
Wayne Gretzky names 4x Stanley Cup champ as the toughest goaltender he faced in his NHL career: ‘He hated me and I hated him’
Who was the other candidate for the position?
In addition to Darche, who ultimately landed the role, the Islanders also considered Marc Bergevin, senior advisor to the Los Angeles Kings and former general manager of the Montreal Canadiens. However, the New York franchise ultimately placed its trust in the former Tampa Bay executive.
