Back on April 22, the New York Islanders revealed they would not be renewing Lou Lamoriello’s contract, effectively ending his tenure as team president and general manager—a role he held since 2018. Despite major developments around the league and within the sports world since then, the Islanders still haven’t named a successor. However, Arthur Staple of The Athletic reports that a Lamoriello return in a different role may be on the table.
Staple noted that the key twist in the Islanders’ ongoing front office search is Lamoriello himself. According to a league source, team owner Scott Malkin—who has the final decision—would like to retain Lamoriello in some form, most likely as an adviser to the incoming general manager.
Initially, New York aimed to land Ken Holland—former Oilers and Red Wings executive—as their top choice. They also sought permission to speak with Jeff Gorton, current president of the Canadiens, but were denied. If either candidate had been hired, they would have assumed both of Lamoriello’s roles, effectively closing the door on any continued involvement from the 82-year-old.
Later updates from Staple suggested that if Lamoriello remains, it would likely be in an advisory role to ownership rather than directly with the front office.
The Islanders are actively searching for both a President of Hockey Operations and a General Manager, with the upcoming No. 1 draft pick looming. As the clock ticks down on that decision, Lamoriello’s potential continued involvement adds a new layer to the situation.
Still, some fans feel that keeping Lamoriello—regardless of the role—undermines the desire for a fresh start. Following a disappointing season, many are calling for a complete overhaul, and retaining a central figure from the past may not signal the change they’re hoping for.
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