NHL: Should Jack Capuano Coach the New York Islanders Next Season?

A few days ago, I had a discussion with someone, revolving around the state of the Islanders. Over the course of this conversation,  head coach Jack Capuano's name came up.

My friend said, "I have been saying Capuano is a good coach, a guy who understands hockey but people too—a great communicator!"

I couldn't help but agree, and simply realized, he was right.

Jack Capuano should be strongly considered for the head coaching position next season. Forget consideration. He should be the Isles' head coach in 2011-12.

There is finally a sense of optimism around the team, and "Captain Jack" has been a big part of that. The team is now 16-12-4 under their new head coach since he first took over on an interim basis.

They are 5-1 in their last six games.

Capuano is a perfect fit for the team. He is familiar with many of the young players who have came up from their AHL affiliate in Bridgeport, where he was the head coach before he was called up by the Islanders.

There is a clear level of mutual respect between the Isles' players and their coach, and as the team has displayed recently, they love playing for this guy.

He has shown much patience and a sheer desire to work with the younger players. His commitment to the future success of this organization traces back to his Sound Tigers coaching days.

His up-tempo system has worked better than the one Scott Gordon tried implementing, and his Islanders are starting to make some waves around the league.

So, my question is, why would the Islanders want to "mess with success?"

They shouldn't, and I hope they make the right decision and keep Mr. Capuano right where he is—behind the bench.