A surprising talk between the two coaches behind the scenes
Right before taking charge of the New York Islanders, Peter DeBoer had a brief but important moment with his predecessor, Patrick Roy.
DeBoer mentioned that he sent messages to Roy, who told him he would “really enjoy working with this group of Islanders. ” It’s a short note, but it shows how much Roy respects the team even though his time as coach was ending.
Roy was let go from his coaching position on Sunday, and DeBoer came in with just four games left in the regular season. The Islanders are trying hard to get into the playoffs in a very competitive Eastern Conference, and DeBoer is stepping in to lead a team that has not been doing well lately, losing seven out of their last ten games.
At 57, DeBoer has a lot of experience, having been available since leaving the Dallas Stars last season and also working as an assistant for Team Canada during the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics.
Now, everyone is looking forward to seeing how DeBoer will help the Islanders in the final stretch of the season.
But with all the changes and stress, that quick message from Roy gives us a rare look at the friendship and respect that is present behind the scenes in the NHL.
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