A 10-game losing streak has cost Islanders' head coach Scott Gordon his job.
The Islanders announced the firing on their website and stated that Jack Capuano would be taking over on an interim basis. Gordon will reportedly remain in the Islanders organization as an advisor to general manager Garth Snow.
"We believe we need a change in direction and, with the majority of the regular season still ahead of us, our goal remains to qualify for the Stanley Cup playoffs," Snow said in a statement. "Scott has made tremendous strides with our team the past three seasons and I look forward to continuing our relationship in an advisory capacity."
Capuano has served as the head coach for the Islanders AHL affiliate in Bridgeport for the past four seasons. He is expected to make his NHL coaching debut against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Wednesday.
Capuano has worked with many of the younger Islanders who spent time in Bridgeport over the past few seasons. He also worked with the Islanders during training camp.
"There is a comfort knowing there doesn't have to be a feeling-out process with our players," Snow said during a conference call Monday.
Scoring has been a huge issue for the Isles this season. During the team's current 10 game losing streak they are averaging a league low 1.7 goals per game. The team currently sit dead last in the Eastern Conference with a 4-10-3 record.
"The biggest issue with our team right now is offence," Snow said. "We obviously have a young group of players with a good group of veterans. Our focus right now is to win a game on Wednesday."
In two seasons as the Islanders head coach, Gordon compiled a 64-94-23 record. The Isles missed the playoffs both seasons under Gordon's tenure.
"It's very disappointing," Snow said. "It's a situation where Scott is an excellent coach and a good friend. It's been a great experience to work with him the past three seasons."
