**Patrick Roy to Continue as Islanders Head Coach Under New Management**

Mathieu Darche has made his first major decision as the newly appointed general manager of the Islanders, opting to retain Patrick Roy as the team's head coach. "I think Patrick's a winner," Darche declared. "He's had success coaching when he came here the first year, he did have success."

Despite not knowing Roy personally beforehand, Darche indicated that extensive conversations with various contacts in the hockey world had convinced him of Roy's capabilities. A recent face-to-face meeting between Darche and Roy cemented this decision. "I'm extremely comfortable and extremely excited to be working with him. I know he's passionate. He works hard," Darche added.

Roy is gearing up for what will be his second full season as the Islanders' head coach. The previous season concluded with a 35-35-12 record, a performance that left the team out of the playoffs and led to significant changes in management. This includes the dismissal of long-time GM Lou Lamoriello, paving the way for Darche’s ascension.

However, the coaching team will see some changes. John MacLean and Tommy Albelin, both considered close associates of Lamoriello, have been let go. Benoit Desrosiers, who has previous experience working with Roy at the junior level, will stay on.

The future role of Lou Lamoriello remains uncertain. Although he has met with Darche to facilitate the transition, no decision has been made regarding whether Lamoriello will serve in an advisory role moving forward. The decision rests with Darche, who now holds the reins of the Islanders' management.