Pete DeBoer’s Islanders discovered some struggle after arduous look in mirror

The most important motivator Pete DeBoer noticed from his new workforce on Thursday night time, the most important cause he felt their willingness to purchase in, was one thing he didn’t give them.

“It got here from a spot of, they have been disenchanted {that a} coach acquired fired,” DeBoer stated after his first recreation behind the Islanders’ bench ended 5-3 over the Maple Leafs. “And I believe they seemed within the mirror, they usually owned their a part of that. And I believe to their credit score, when you have got character and you are feeling that manner, it’s the way you reply to that.

“I had a gaggle all week that was actually embracing and prepared for a response as a result of they felt unhealthy about what occurred.”

New York Islanders head coach Peter DeBoer speaks to the media at UBS Arena. — Head coach Peter DeBoer speaks to the media following the Islanders’ 5-3 victory over Maple Leafs at UBS Enviornment on April 9, 2026. Heather Khalifa for NY Submit

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