Phil Goyette, First Coach of the New York Islanders, Passes Away at 92

Phil Goyette, a former NHL forward and the inaugural head coach of the New York Islanders, has died at the age of 92. His passing was confirmed by the Montreal Canadiens, the team with which he began his professional career in the 1956-57 season. The Canadiens expressed their condolences, stating that Goyette's family appreciates the public's sympathy, although no cause of death was provided.

ESPNFormer Canadiens centre Phil Goyette dies at age 92Phil Goyette, picked by Bill Torrey to be NY Islanders first head coach, dies at 92

Born in Lachine, Quebec, Goyette played 16 seasons in the NHL, primarily with the Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, Buffalo Sabres, and St. Louis Blues. During his time with the Canadiens, he was part of a dynasty that secured Stanley Cup titles in each of his first four seasons. Over his career, Goyette recorded 207 goals and 467 assists in 940 regular-season games, and he added 46 points in 94 playoff games. Notably, he won the Lady Byng Trophy for sportsmanship in the 1969-70 season while with the Blues.

Former Canadiens centre Phil Goyette dies at age 92ESPNPhil Goyette, picked by Bill Torrey to be NY Islanders first head coach, dies at 92

In 1972, Goyette was appointed as the first head coach of the New York Islanders, an expansion franchise. General Manager Bill Torrey selected Goyette, believing that the team needed a coach who could adapt to the evolving nature of the game. Goyette's coaching tenure was challenging; he led the Islanders to a record of 6 wins, 40 losses, and 4 ties before being replaced by Earl Ingarfield Sr. midway through the season. Despite the struggles, Goyette's role as the franchise's first coach remains a significant part of the Islanders' history.

Phil Goyette, picked by Bill Torrey to be NY Islanders first head coach, dies at 92

Goyette emphasized the importance of building relationships with his players, stating, “My first thought on coaching is that I want the players to know me and me to know them.” His coaching career ended after that inaugural season, leaving him with a record of 6-38-4.

Phil Goyette, picked by Bill Torrey to be NY Islanders first head coach, dies at 92

The New York Islanders released a statement expressing their sadness over Goyette's passing, highlighting his importance as the organization's original head coach. Similarly, the New York Rangers acknowledged his contributions to the sport and extended their condolences to his family and friends.

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While Goyette's playing career was celebrated, his coaching stint with the Islanders was marked by difficulties. Critics noted that the challenges of leading an expansion team may have contributed to his lack of success behind the bench.

Phil Goyette, picked by Bill Torrey to be NY Islanders first head coach, dies at 92

• “We join the hockey world in sending our condolences to Phil's loved ones, friends, and former teammates,” — New York Rangers

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• “Today's players need a new kind of coach,” — Bill Torrey, General Manager of the New York Islanders

Phil Goyette, picked by Bill Torrey to be NY Islanders first head coach, dies at 92

• “My first thought on coaching is that I want the players to know me and me to know them,” — Phil Goyette

Phil Goyette, picked by Bill Torrey to be NY Islanders first head coach, dies at 92

Phil Goyette's contributions to hockey, both as a player and a coach, have left a lasting impact on the sport, and his legacy will be remembered by fans and players alike.

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