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New York Islanders fire head coach Jack Capuano

By Dave Stevenson

Dec 23, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders head coach Jack Capuano looks on coaches against the Buffalo Sabres during the second period at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 23, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders head coach Jack Capuano looks on coaches against the Buffalo Sabres during the second period at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New York Islanders have fired head coach Jack Capuano, replacing him with former NHL star Doug Weight. 

Ever since the New York Islanders changed owners, head coach Jack Capuano has been on the hot seat. Even entering the season, a strong start was needed as the new owners basically viewed this season as a tryout for the old regime. After a 7-4 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes during the weekend, the Islanders have fired Capuano.

“The New York Islanders would like to thank Jack for his tireless work throughout his seven seasons with the organization as Head Coach,” general manager Garth Snow said, via NHL.com. “His leadership guided the team to the playoffs in three of the past four years, which included two straight 100-point seasons. He is a great coach and an even better person. We wish him nothing but the best moving forward.”

For the time being, former Islanders center Doug Weight will serve as the interim head coach. He is highly thought of, serving in a variety of roles for the Isles. Weight has experience both behind the bench and in the front office. This should be good for the Islanders, as this will likely help him have an efficient partnership with the higher ups. The relationship between a coach and front office is extremely important. Weight has a head start due to his unique background.

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This is very curious timing for the Islanders. Snow has defended his former head coach multiple time this season. So what changed? Why fire Capuano now as opposed to earlier in the season? Is this anything more than an extended audition for Weight? Will he be their permanent head coach moving forward? These are all important questions. The answers to them could determine the Islanders future.

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