NY Islanders scratch Maxim Tsyplakov for Oilers game, Patrick Roy explains

The New York Islanders will make a lineup change ahead of Thursday night’s matchup against the Edmonton Oilers at UBS Arena, with winger Maxim Tsyplakov expected to be a healthy scratch as head coach Patrick Roy looks to reset his fourth line.

Tsyplakov confirmed Wednesday that the decision stemmed from what he and Roy both called “little details” in his game that need refinement.

“It’s just some of the little details,” Tsyplakov said after morning skate, where he skated as an extra. “It needs a little bit better of a connection… It’s about tactics in the D-zone, the neutral zone. It just needs a little bit of a correction.”

Roy echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that the move was less about discipline and more about timing. “Sometimes you make a change to make a change,” he said. “Kyle [MacLean] hasn’t played this year, and we felt like it’s time for him to play. I think he’s going to bring energy and speed to the lineup.”

Kyle MacLean will draw in alongside Casey Cizikas and Simon Holmstrom on the fourth line, while Tsyplakov watches from the press box.

Tsyplakov, 26, is in his second season with the Islanders after joining from Spartak Moscow of the KHL last summer. He tallied 10 goals and 25 assists in 77 games last season before signing a two-year contract extension in July. The benching comes after Monday’s 4-2 loss to the Winnipeg Jets, when Tsyplakov’s miscue on a defensive rush led to a goal by defenseman Logan Stanley. He played just 6:43 and was benched for the entire third period.

“[Tsyplakov] has a few things that we want him to clean up,” Roy said. “That’s what I love about him — he’s going to work hard at it, and I’m sure he’ll be ready when he gets back.” Tsyplakov remains confident the adjustments are minor. “It’s easy stuff,” he said. “I just need a little change of mind.”