Darche reveals how Rocky Thompson earned his promotion to the NY Islanders bench

When Pete DeBoer began putting together his coaching staff after taking over the New York Islanders with four hames left last season, there were plenty of names he could have considered from around the NHL. Instead, one of the first additions came from within the organization.

Following the draft, General Manager Mathieu Darche was asked about the decision-making process that led to Rocky Thompson's promotion from the AHL affiliate.

"He did a phenomenal job last year in Bridgeport," Darche said. "I thought he, you know, we were able to really change the culture down there." While Bridgeport's record didn't necessarily reflect a dramatic turnaround, the organization clearly felt Thompson had established a stronger developmental environment and level of accountability for the Islanders' prospects. For a franchise suddenly relying heavily on its young talent pipeline, that work mattered.

Darche explained that when DeBoer arrived, he had several candidates in mind as he began assembling his staff. But after meeting Thompson, the veteran coach quickly saw qualities he wanted on his bench. "When Pete took over, obviously he wanted to make some changes to the staff and he had a few names in mind," Darche said. "And then when he met with Rocky, he really was really comfortable with having him."

Ultimately, it wasn't Thompson's resume that won DeBoer over as much as the way he connects with players. "He loved his energy, loved his communication skills with the player," Darche said. "That's going to help him on his staff."

After helping reshape the culture in Bridgeport, Thompson now gets an opportunity to help establish one on Long Island as the Islanders begin a new era under DeBoer and Darche.

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