DeBoer’s Coaching Journey: A Mixed Start with the Islanders

Pete DeBoer seems to have a knack for making impactful starts in his coaching career.

In his inaugural season with the Devils, he guided them to the 2012 Stanley Cup Final. Then, during his debut season in San Jose, he took the Sharks to the 2016 Stanley Cup Final as well. When he arrived in Las Vegas in 2019, he brought the Golden Knights to the conference finals. Most recently, he led the Stars to the 2023 Conference Finals.

However, his experience with the Islanders has been a bit rocky. After a tough start—losing two out of three games and missing out on the postseason for the second straight year—he gained some unexpected insights about the team.

“I think we’ll be ahead of the game” next season, DeBoer reflected after a loss to Montreal. “Had we started in the summer, we would have definitely been more prepared.” He continued, “I have many more answers about the team than I would have if we hadn’t had this experience together. I’m excited to kick off training camp and work with them.”

DeBoer aims to wrap up the season positively in the upcoming game against the Hurricanes. Unfortunately, after dropping six of their last seven matches, the Islanders (43-33-5) are in a precarious position regarding the playoffs.

After the last game, players were still processing the abrupt end to what had seemed like a hopeful season. Discussions about DeBoer’s arrival have been ongoing since he took over with just four regular-season games remaining.

Following the game, first-year general manager Mathieu Darche explained that the coaching change was aimed at something far more significant than just the last four games—it was about securing the top free agent available.

In his final game, DeBoer plans to evaluate as many players as he can, which could include 19-year-old forward Victor Eklund. He was the No. 16 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft and has been making waves with nine points (two goals, seven assists) in just seven games with AHL Bridgeport.

Potential call-ups might also feature veteran winger Matt Ruff, Adam Beckman, former first-round pick Liam Foudy, young defenseman Isaiah George, and Marshall Warren, who hails from Long Island.

“I think it’s crucial to have players in the game who might contribute next season,” DeBoer noted.

Not long ago, it felt unimaginable that the Islanders’ season could conclude in just one poorly timed game. Just days before, they still held out hope of making it to the postseason.

Yet, the DeBoer era is just beginning.

“There are always lessons learned when you play crucial games at the end of the season,” he reflected. “When the season ends, it’s hard to digest everything—the journey, the highs and lows. I empathize with the team… We definitely have a lot to improve, but there’s also plenty of potential.”