What team did the man who turned down the first head coach job of the New York Islanders play for for 25 seasons?
1972–73 New York Islanders season The 1972–73 New York Islanders season was the first season in the franchise's history. At the beginning of 1972, Gordie Howe was offered the job as first head coach of the New York Islanders, but turned it down. The Islanders were coached by Phil Goyette (6–38–4) and Earl Ingarfield (6–22–2). Overall, the team finished in last place with an appalling 12–60–6 record, unable to qualify for the playoffs.
2006–07 New York Islanders season The 2006–07 New York Islanders season was the 35th season in the franchise's history. They qualified for the playoffs in the last game of the regular season. They lost to the Buffalo Sabres in the first round, 4–1.