Darche offers encouraging update on NY Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov

The New York Islanders shared encouraging news Friday regarding injured defenseman Alexander Romanov.

General manager Mathieu Darche said Romanov’s recovery from shoulder surgery is progressing well and left open the possibility that the physical blueliner could return during the postseason.

“Romy is doing really, really well,” Darche said. “There’s a chance he could be ready for the playoffs, if not, like, very early in the playoffs.”

Romanov underwent shoulder surgery after being injured late in the Islanders’ 3–2 win against the Dallas Stars on Nov. 18. The 25-year-old defenseman was boarded from behind by Stars forward Mikko Rantanen with just seconds remaining in the third period, a play that resulted in a game misconduct and ended Romanov’s night.

The Islanders later announced Romanov would be sidelined for approximately five to six months, creating a major void on their blue line. Before the injury, Romanov had recorded one assist, 31 hits and 31 blocked shots in 15 games while averaging nearly 20 minutes of ice time per night.

Head coach Patrick Roy acknowledged immediately after the injury that replacing Romanov’s physical presence would not be easy.

“You don’t replace a player like him,” Roy said at the time. “You hope the guys coming in will fit in.”

Still, Romanov’s potential return would provide a significant boost if the Islanders reach the playoffs. Known for his physical edge, shot blocking and ability to handle tough defensive minutes, Romanov has become a key part of the team’s identity. For now, the timeline remains uncertain. But Darche’s update offers hope that Romanov could rejoin the lineup at the most important time of the year.