UNIONDALE, N.Y.—Ted Nolan’s return to NHL coaching ended after only two years Monday when he split with the New York Islanders over “philosophical differences” with general manager Garth Snow.

Although there had been a growing rift throughout last season between Nolan and Snow, the somewhat surprising midsummer move was made after a morning meeting at Nassau Coliseum before the opening of a rookie training camp.

After getting the Islanders into the playoffs in 2007, Nolan guided the club to a 35-38-9 finish last season. He finished his New York tenure with a 74-68-21 mark.

Nolan sought an extension last season, when New York failed to make the playoffs for only the second time in six seasons, but was turned down by team owner Charles Wang. Nolan is expected to be paid for next season.