Interest in the New York Islanders president of hockey operations and general manager position has been high since the organization decided to move on from Lou Lamoriello after seven seasons.

For executives out of a job, it's an appealing option to get back to doing what they do. 

The opening would serve as a stepping stone for assistant general managers, analysts, or recently retired players.

From the start, it was clear that the Islanders were looking for someone with tremendous experience to fill the president of hockey operations role, and then roles like GMs and AGMs would follow.

However, whether those high-level executives were with other teams, some still fighting in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, or available, the interest had two sides. 

Let's say a guy like Holland was the top choice. 

The soon-to-be 70-year-old last worked as POHO for the Edmonton Oilers, leaving following the 2022-23 season, and has been serving as an advisor for the NHL since.

Given the Islanders roster, the issues with Bridgeport, and the prospect pool, which is improving, would a longtime executive be interested in it?

But it's certainly possible that the Islanders' winning the No. 1 overall pick at the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery would make a job more enticing for someone who may or may not have been interested before Monday night's drawing. 

The Islanders POHO/GM search seems to be winding down, but we still need to hear from Luc Robitaille, the POHO of the Los Angeles Kings, as to whether or not Marc Bergevin, who served as Rob Blake's advisor, will be an option for him to fill that hole.

We'll have to see if the Montreal Canadiens POHO Jeff Gorton has an interest in the Islanders' job. 

Things are fluid, and no decision has been made, as of yet. 

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