Islanders shake up coaching staff after dismal power-play struggles
The New York Islanders have parted ways with assistant coach Ray Bennett ahead of the 2026-27 season. The decision was described as mutual, marking the end of his time with the team. Meanwhile, changes are already underway to address the Islanders’ struggling power play.
Bennett spent last season overseeing the Islanders’ power play, which ranked third-worst in the NHL with a 16.5 percent success rate. Over the final 12 games of the regular season, the team’s efficiency dropped further to just 14.7 percent. Despite these struggles, forwards Matthew Schaefer and Bo Horvat led the way with eight and seven power-play goals, respectively.
With Bennett’s departure, responsibility for the power play will shift to someone new. The team has already promoted AHL head coach Rocky Thompson to the NHL staff. Bennett, meanwhile, has moved on to join the Washington Capitals as an assistant. The power play remains a key concern for incoming head coach Peter DeBoer and his staff. Improving its performance will be a top priority as the Islanders prepare for the upcoming season.
The Islanders now face the task of reviving their power play under new leadership. Thompson’s promotion and DeBoer’s arrival signal a fresh approach. Meanwhile, Bennett begins a new chapter with the Capitals after his exit from Long Island.
