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East Meadow Today
By the People, for the People
Pete DeBoer Joins Islanders, Excited to Work with Mathieu Darche
Former Dallas Stars coach cites Darche's sales pitch as key factor in taking Islanders job
Apr. 6, 2026 at 8:13pm
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The Islanders' new head coach Pete DeBoer brings his veteran NHL experience to a team seeking a return to the playoffs.East Meadow TodayPete DeBoer, who was let go by the Dallas Stars at the end of the 2025-26 NHL season, has been hired as the new head coach of the New York Islanders. DeBoer cited Islanders assistant general manager Mathieu Darche as a major factor in his decision to take the job, saying Darche "really sold me" on the opportunity.
Why it matters
DeBoer is a veteran NHL coach with a strong track record, having led teams like the New Jersey Devils, San Jose Sharks, and Dallas Stars to the playoffs. His hiring by the Islanders represents a significant move as the team looks to return to postseason contention after missing the playoffs the past two seasons.
The details
After being dismissed by the Stars, DeBoer had the opportunity to wait for other head coaching openings around the league. However, he was convinced to take the Islanders job by Darche, the team's assistant GM. DeBoer praised Darche's sales pitch and said he is "really excited" to work with the Islanders organization.
- DeBoer was let go by the Dallas Stars at the end of the 2025-26 NHL season.
- DeBoer was hired as the new head coach of the New York Islanders in April 2026.
The players
Pete DeBoer
A veteran NHL head coach who has led teams like the New Jersey Devils, San Jose Sharks, and Dallas Stars to the playoffs.
Mathieu Darche
The assistant general manager of the New York Islanders, who played a key role in convincing DeBoer to take the head coaching job.
What they’re saying
“Mathieu Darche, he really sold me”
— Pete DeBoer, New York Islanders Head Coach
The takeaway
DeBoer's hiring represents an experienced and respected coach joining the Islanders, who are looking to bounce back after missing the playoffs the past two seasons. Darche's ability to convince DeBoer to take the job suggests the Islanders are building a strong front office and coaching staff to return the team to contention.
