Luca Romano's shootout bravura steals the show in the NY Islanders' preseason opener

While all eyes were on this summer’s first overall pick, Matthew Schaefer, the 74th overall pick, Luca Romano, made all the highlight reels.

After a strong first outing where he displayed his speed and capability to play in all three zones, Romano’s shootout performance had social media abuzz. 

In a shootout that didn’t want to end, Romano stepped up as the Islanders' tenth shooter. The 18-year-old put on a forehand, backhand move that left Flyers goaltender Carter Bjarnson outside of his crease with a gaping net for Romano to slide the puck into. 

Romano steals the show

The NHL reposted Romano’s move with the caption, “TAKE A BOW, LUCA ROMANO.” While the Spittin’ Chickets podcast said, “Luca Romano, confirmed member of the hands team.”

The Islanders have struggled in shootout scenarios the last two seasons, posting a record of 3-8, but it appears Romano could be one player for the future who steps up in the skills competition.

Despite his solid debut, Romano, along with Tomas Poletin and Burke Hood, were returned to their respective CHL teams this morning.

Romano was impressive last night, along with his time at Rookie and Training Camp, but he was always going to return to juniors this season. This allows him more time to familiarize himself with his new Kitchener Rangers teammates.

Romano is entering his third season of junior hockey, having his best season in his draft year, finishing with 51 points (25 G, 26 A) in 67 games. He’ll take on more of a leadership role this season and look towards becoming a point-per-game forward.