The 48-year-old former NHL forward, who spent the previous six seasons — including two Stanley Cups — with the Lightning, takes control of the team’s hockey operations department from Lou Lamoriello.

Mathieu Darche is going to complete the Islanders’ move away from the defensive style of hockey that put them back on the map during Lou Lamoriello’s seven-year reign — a philosophy that wavered upon the arrival of head coach Patrick Roy a year and a half ago.

All around the UBS Club in UBS Arena, smiles were on faces. Laughs were had, and fans cheered and clapped. Select season ticket holders filled the room with assorted team personnel and media members.