New York Islanders Week Ahead: Schedule & Storylines – Major Shakeup, Do-or-Die and More – The Hockey Writers – New York Islanders

Here is the latest news and schedule outlook for the New York Islanders for the week of April 6-13, 2026.

A Major Coaching Shakeup

The absolute biggest story surrounding the New York Islanders right now is their sudden coaching change. With just four games left in the regular season, General Manager Mathieu Darche fired head coach Patrick Roy on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

To replace him, the Islanders have hired Peter DeBoer. Unlike typical end-of-season interim hires, DeBoer was signed to a multi-year deal lasting through the 2029–30 season.

This drastic move comes as the team has hit a wall at the worst possible time. Despite being in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race, the Islanders have dropped four games in a row and seven of their last ten. Management is clearly hoping DeBoer, who holds a pristine 9-0 record in Game 7s, can ignite the team and secure their playoff spot.

Islanders Upcoming Schedule

The Islanders are currently sitting in 4th place in the Metropolitan Division with a 42-31-5 record (89 points), putting them right on the edge of the playoff bubble.

The outlook for the next seven days is do-or-die. Fortunately, the Islanders have a distinct advantage: every game remaining on their schedule is on home ice. They are hosting a crucial late-season homestand at UBS Arena against three Atlantic Division opponents. This week will determine whether the coaching change was enough to halt their skid and punch their ticket to the postseason.

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