Islanders' Romanov returns to the ice after 13-month injury absence
The New York Islanders returned to the ice on Friday for their fourth straight practice session. Fans got a first look at the team's lines and defensive pairings as they prepare for the season ahead. Season Ticket Members were also in attendance at Northwell Health Ice Center to watch the session unfold.
Defenceman Alexander Romanov made a notable appearance, taking shots on goalies Ilya Sorokin and David Rittich before practice. Though he did not join full team drills, his presence marked progress after a lengthy absence. Romanov had been sidelined for roughly 13 months due to a shoulder injury, undergoing surgery in November 2023 and missing all team activities since October 2023.
Head Coach Patrick Roy shared that Romanov is eager to resume full training after such a long recovery. Meanwhile, the team's defensive pairings saw Matthew Schaefer and Ryan Pulock on the first unit, with Adam Pelech and Tony DeAngelo on the second. Carson Soucy and Scott Mayfield formed the third pair, while Adam Boqvist worked as the extra defenceman.
Up front, the top line featured Anthony Duclair, Mathew Barzal, and Max Shabanov. Anders Lee, Jean-Gabriel Pageau, and Simon Holmstrom skated together on the second line, with Kyle MacLean, Casey Cizikas, and Marc Gatcomb rounding out the third. Notably absent were Ondrej Palat and Bo Horvat, who are currently competing in the Winter Olympic Games.
Romanov's return to the ice, even in a limited capacity, signals a step forward in his recovery. The Islanders continue to refine their line combinations as they build toward the upcoming season. With key players still away at the Olympics, the team remains focused on preparation and progress.
