The 1988 Coaching Change of the NY Islanders: Simpson Fired, Arbour Returns

Name: The 1988 Coaching Change of the NY Islanders: Simpson Fired, Arbour Returns
Start: 1987-12-07
Location: Unspecified

NY Islanders Bid Farewell to Terry Simpson

Terry Simpson’s Tenure as Head Coach

Terry Simpson was hired as the head coach of the New York Islanders in 1987, stepping into a challenging situation as the team struggled to reclaim its former glory from the early 1980s. Simpson's vision for the team was to rebuild and revitalize the players, but after less than two seasons, his time with the team came to an end. In April 1988, the Islanders announced the decision to fire Simpson, citing the need for a new direction as the team had failed to make a significant impact in the playoffs.

The Decision to Fire Simpson

The motivation behind the Islanders' decision to terminate Terry Simpson’s contract was multifaceted. While there were occasional bright spots in player performance, the overall team performance was unsatisfactory, leading management to feel a change was necessary to spark a new life into the squad. This decision was seen as a critical move to revive the team’s competitive edge in the NHL.

Al Arbour’s Return to the Islanders

The Legacy of Al Arbour

Al Arbour is a legendary figure in the history of the NY Islanders, having led the team to four consecutive Stanley Cup championships from 1980 to 1983. His prior success made him a natural choice to return to the helm of the team so that he could guide a fresh new era for the Islanders. His coaching style was known for its emphasis on discipline and defensive structure, which many believed was needed to reshape the team’s principles.

Impact of Arbour’s Leadership

Upon taking over after Simpson’s firing, Al Arbour aimed to revitalize not just the players’ performance but also to renew the team's spirit and pride. His return was marked by immediate changes in strategy and player roles, which helped create a more cohesive unit. The Islanders, under Arbour’s leadership, began moving towards a more promising future, drawing from his extensive experience and connection with the franchise.

Fun Fact

Al Arbour: A Coaching Icon

Despite his first retirement after the 1985 season, Al Arbour's return was met with excitement. He became one of just a few coaches in NHL history to achieve over 800 wins, solidifying his legendary status in the sport.