Islanders name George McPhee special advisor to Garth Snow

NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Islanders have named George McPhee as special adviser to General Manager Garth Snow.

Snow announced the appointment of the former Washington Capitals general manager on Wednesday.

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McPhee served as the Caps’ GM for 17 seasons beginning in 1997-98. The team reached the playoffs 10 times during his tenure. Under his leadership, Washington claimed seven Southeast Division championships and one Presidents’ Trophy (2009-10). He also oversaw the franchise’s first trip to the Stanley Cup Final during his first season.

Prior to joining the Capitals, McPhee spent five seasons as the vice president and director of hockey operations for the Vancouver Canucks. That team made four trips to the playoffs and one to the 1994 Stanley Cup Final.

McPhee had a seven-year NHL playing career with the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils.