Islanders’ Ledecky and Scott Malkin Need to Start Acting Like Owners
Changes need to happen as the Islanders are on track to miss the playoffs.
Sometimes in the NHL, teams reach a point where they can no longer move forward, and everything is stale. That’s where the New York Islanders find themselves and changes need to happen - beginning with the front office.
For the second time in three years, the team is on track to miss the playoffs. The Islanders have not made a first-round draft selection since 2019, as the organization has prioritized going after the Stanley Cup.
But the window appears to be closed – and several players have not lived up to their contracts. Plus, three different head coaches have been behind the bench in the last three years. The core of players has achieved about as much as they can and it’s time for change.
It Starts With the Owners
Ultimately, Lou Lamoriello, president and general manager, is responsible for the roster and the staff. However, it all begins with ownership, in the Islanders’ case Jon Ledecky and Scott Malkin.
Both purchased the team at a valuation of $485 million, according to Forbes. While Ledecky has some say, Malkin is the majority owner, meaning it’s his call on the direction he wants the organization to take and who makes roster decisions.
Why Ownership Needs to Move On From Lamoriello
But it’s time for a new president and GM. If that means firing Lamoriello, rather than the 81-year-old deciding to resign – then that’s what needs to happen.
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