But as the Islander coach for a season and a half, his teams were a combined 36-73-19.

The next Islander coach could be a veteran with knowledge of his primary local rivals.

Of course he is excited to begin his first season as the coach of the Islanders.

It appeared earlier this week that he had talked enough with Simpson, the former coach of the Islanders, to offer him the job.

"Certainly we had the opportunities to win," said Stewart, whose record as Islander coach dropped to 6-8-4.

Terry Simpson, in his rookie year as coach of the Islanders, was rather calm after the game.

Al Arbour, the Islander coach, said both men are questionable for the next game.

Al Arbour, coach of the Islanders, declined to comment today on the issue.

"I think we look at it as a win," said Terry Simpson, coach of the Islanders.

Al Arbour, the Islander coach, said that this may have been a factor over the recent home stand, but didn't want to dwell on it.