NHL Rumors: 3 Potential Replacements For Barry Trotz

After stunning the hockey world by deposing of head coach Barry Trotz on Monday, the next move for New York Islanders president Lou Lamoriello will be watched closely. Of course, he always keeps his cards close to his vest, so no names will be leaking out of the organization just yet. But here's a look at three potential candidates to replace Trotz behind the Islanders bench. 

Mike Babcock

This one would certainly get a rise out of Toronto Maple Leafs fans, but let's face it, Lamoriello and Babcock have a history. They worked together in Toronto for three years, and Babcock always had the GM's support. 

The 59-year-old Babcock is currently coaching at the University of Saskatchewan, and certainly has a Hall of Fame and a championship pedigree. He did leave Toronto amidst accusations of a toxic work environment, however. But Lamoriello, to be frank, couldn't care less about public opinion.

Pete DeBoer

The Las Vegas Golden Knights head coach worked under Lamoriello in New Jersey for 3+ seasons about a decade ago, and even led the Devils to the 2012 Stanley Cup Final. If Vegas decides to move on from DeBoer after missing the playoffs for the first time in franchise history, Lamoriello could consider a reunion.

Paul Maurice

Another coach with a considerable winning pedigree—he's 6th all-time in coaching wins—Maurice shockingly resigned from the Winnipeg Jets early this season because the felt the team "needed a new voice." Perhaps his voice would go over better in Long Island, where Lamoriello made an eerily similar proclamation on Monday. 

Lou Lamoriello: "It is my role to make the best decisions for the organization going forward and I believe that this group of players needs a new voice." #Isles

— Joe Pantorno (@JoePantorno) May 9, 2022

"I believe that this group of players needs a new voice," said Lamoriello, in explaining the move away from Trotz. 

To be sure, there are many other viable candidates as well. After back-to-back semi-final appearances before this season, there should be no shortage of coaches clamoring to take the Islanders job.