Islanders Fire GM Smith; Snow Is New GM

By IRA PODELL

NEW YORK – Neil Smith was fired after less than a month as general manager of the New York Islanders and replaced Tuesday by goalie Garth Snow, who retired from the club to take over the position.

Smith was abruptly let go after getting back into the NHL following a six-year absence. He was a bit of a surprise choice to replace Mike Milbury last month. His replacement is even more of a shock.

“I spoke with Garth at length throughout the spring about the general manager’s position and he really impressed me with his passion and his knowledge,” Islanders owner Charles Wang said in a statement. “When the job opened up, the choice was an easy one.”

Snow, who went 4-13-1 last season as the backup to top Islanders goalie Rick DiPietro will be in charge of making trades and will oversee the pro scouting department. He joins a revamped organization that includes new coach Ted Nolan, senior adviser Pat LaFontaine, player development director Bryan Trottier, chief amateur scout Tony Feltrin and pro scouting director Ken Morrow.

“This is a proud moment for me, a dream come true,” said Snow, who played 12 NHL seasons, the final four with the Islanders. “It’s an opportunity I wanted more than anything.

“Islander fans can be assured that this franchise is going to do everything in its power to bring another Stanley Cup to Long Island.”