Torrey, Former Islander President, Is Hired by Expansion Panthers

Bill Torrey, who helped build the New York Islanders from an expansion team into four-time Stanley Cup champions, became president of the expansion Florida Panthers on Monday.

“We know expansion is not without pain and difficulties, but like with any birth comes the excitement of growth and hope for the future,” said Torrey, 58, who was general manager from 1975-1988 for the Islanders, who held the NHL title from 1980-1983. He had recently been an adviser to the Islanders.

“Frankly, after all the years of having the authority of running a franchise, my hand was cut down in the advisory role and I missed the day-to-day action of being involved,” he said.

Bobby Clarke had been hired as the club’s general manager.