Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Islanders Elevate Rocky Thompson to Assistant Coach on DeBoer’s Staff

The promotion rewards a rapid AHL turnaround, signaling an emphasis on player development after two straight NHL playoff misses.

Overview

  • New York announced the move Tuesday, placing Rocky Thompson on Peter DeBoer’s NHL coaching staff as an assistant.
  • Thompson departs after one season leading the AHL Bridgeport club from a 15-50-7 low to a 34-30-8 record and its first playoff berth since 2021-22.
  • Bridgeport was swept by Hershey on April 23 in the Calder Cup Playoffs, the affiliate will relocate to Hamilton next season, and a replacement coach has not been named.
  • The 48-year-old brings NHL experience with the Flyers, Sharks and Oilers, plus a 2017 Memorial Cup title with Windsor and a 2022 Memorial Cup as a consultant.
  • He previously worked with Islanders assistant Bob Boughner in San Jose, a reunion that adds familiarity as the NHL club looks to rebound from a 43-34-5 season without a playoff spot.