Islanders Fire Ted Nolan

TED NOLAN WILL NOT RETURN AS ISLANDERS HEAD COACH IN 2008-09
Snow to Begin Search for New Head Coach Immediately

New York Islanders General Manager Garth Snow announced today that Ted Nolan will not return next season as the team’s head coach. Nolan had one season remaining on his contract.

"Ted has helped us achieve some success over the last two seasons, however it has become clear that we have philosophical differences and have decided together to part ways," said Snow. "Since last season and continuing into the summer, I have realized we do not share the same philosophies. I would like to thank Ted for his two years with the team and wish him the best.

"I have a list of several qualified candidates. After a thorough process, we will hire the very best coach to lead the Islanders on the ice."

Added Nolan: "While I am disappointed I will not be coaching the Islanders next season, there have been philosophical differences and we’ve agreed it’s a good time for me to move on. I want to thank the Islanders organization for giving me a chance to coach in the NHL again. I have tremendous respect for what the team is trying to do and I wish them well."

NYIFORLIFE.com REACTION: Well, it wasn't a real surprise, was it? I mean, the worst part about it is that it took place three months after the end of the Islanders' season. As we mentioned in an earlier post, when Nolan was at one end of the Islanders' draft table and Garth Snow was at the other, it was clear that the coach was not being consulted on the draft at all.

I guess now is when we hear the rumors of Bryan Trottier taking over. I would also hope that Snow would interview a guy like John Tortorella. Johnny Torts is not one to mince words and he'd be a quote machine for a team looking to get some publicity. Plus, the guy nurtured (in his own way) the young Lightning stars like Lecavalier and Richards, etc. And the guy has won a Stanley Cup--so he'd come in with instant credibility. Not sure if he is the right fit, but I hope Garth at least kicks the tires.