Another Lamoriello GM tenure ends in the NY Islanders organization

One year after Lou Lamoriello's tenure as New York Islanders general manager came to an end, another chapter of the Lamoriello era has closed.

With the Islanders officially announcing the hiring of Evan Gold as assistant general manager, the organization also confirmed that Gold will become the first general manager of the Hamilton Hammers, replacing Chris Lamoriello as the club's American Hockey League general manager.

It marks the end of Chris Lamoriello's nine-year run overseeing the Islanders' top developmental affiliate. Since taking over Bridgeport prior to the 2017-18 season, Lamoriello compiled a 293-279-73 record. His teams reached the Calder Cup Playoffs three times, although one of those appearances came during the pandemic-shortened qualifying format.

While the on-ice results were mixed, Lamoriello played an important role in developing many of the players who eventually reached the NHL, managing the organization's affiliate through coaching changes, roster turnover and the challenges that accompanied the COVID-19 seasons.

The move also represents another significant organizational shift under general manager Mathieu Darche.

Since replacing Lou Lamoriello last summer, Darche has steadily reshaped the hockey operations department. Hiring Gold—who spent the past 12 seasons with the Boston Bruins and most recently guided Providence to the AHL's best regular-season record—continues that process while placing a new voice in charge of player development.

Chris Lamoriello isn't leaving the organization, however.

According to the Islanders, he will remain involved in player personnel decisions while working closely with the club's amateur, college and professional scouting departments. As first reported by Stefen Rosner, those responsibilities will continue during the 2026-27 season, although Lamoriello's contract status beyond this year has not been disclosed.

A year after Lou Lamoriello's departure marked the beginning of a new era on Long Island, Chris Lamoriello's move out of the AHL general manager's office represents another reminder that the Islanders are continuing to chart a new course from the top down.

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