Full Breakdown
New York Islanders Fire Goaltending Coach Piero Greco, Promote Sergei Naumov
10/23/2025, 3:10:14 AM
Abrupt Coaching Change After Recent Victory
The New York Islanders have made a surprising decision to fire goaltending coach Piero Greco just six games into the 2025-26 NHL season, despite the team winning three consecutive games leading up to the change. General Manager Mathieu Darche announced the move on October 22, 2025, promoting Sergei Naumov from the AHL's Bridgeport Islanders to take over the goaltending responsibilities. This decision comes after a challenging start for the Islanders, particularly for starting goaltender Ilya Sorokin, who has struggled with a 3.90 goals-against average (GAA) and an .873 save percentage.
Background on Piero Greco's Tenure
Piero Greco had been with the Islanders since the 2018-19 season, having joined alongside former General Manager Lou Lamoriello. Under Greco's guidance, Sorokin and other goalies, such as Robin Lehner and Thomas Greiss, achieved notable success, including a William M. Jennings Trophy win in 2019. However, the Islanders' current performance has prompted a reevaluation of their coaching staff, particularly in light of Sorokin's recent struggles.
Sergei Naumov's Appointment and History with Sorokin
Sergei Naumov, who has a long history coaching Sorokin during their time together at CSKA Moscow in the KHL, is expected to bring a familiar approach to the Islanders' goaltending. Naumov's promotion is seen as a strategic move to help Sorokin regain his elite form, as he previously posted a .940 save percentage and 11 shutouts during the 2018-19 season. The Islanders hope that Naumov's familiarity with Sorokin will lead to improved performance in net.
Official Statements on the Coaching Change
Mathieu Darche stated, “Piero has done a great job for the organization for the last seven years. We just felt at this time it was the right timing to have a reset with our goalies.” He emphasized that the decision was made independently of Sorokin's input, asserting, “It’s my decision — it’s not on the player.” Head coach Patrick Roy echoed this sentiment, noting the need for a reset in the goaltending department.
Criticism and Opposition
While the decision to fire Greco has been framed as a necessary reset, it has also drawn mixed reactions. Some analysts question the timing of the change, given the team's recent victories and the potential impact on team morale. Sorokin himself expressed surprise at the decision, thanking Greco for his contributions during their time together.
What's Next for the Islanders
With Naumov now at the helm, the Islanders are looking to address the technical issues that have plagued Sorokin early in the season. The team will face the Detroit Red Wings next, with backup goaltender David Rittich starting in net, allowing Sorokin time to adjust to the new coaching dynamic. The Islanders aim to leverage Naumov's experience to enhance their goaltending performance as they navigate the remainder of the season.
