This NY Islanders prospect gets another opportunity with Alexander Romanov injury

The New York Islanders suffered a big blow during Tuesday's win over the Dallas Stars. Defenseman Alexander Romanov was placed on IR with an upper-body injury after being hit from behind by Mikko Rantanen during the final minute of play. Although Romanov has struggled to start the season, things seemed to be trending in the right direction. He registered his first point of the season with an assist in the Islanders' win over the Mammoth. It seemed like the 25-year-old was returning to his 2024-25 form.

However, the Romanov injury creates an opportunity for another young Islanders defenseman. The team announced Thursday morning that Marshall Warren has been recalled from Bridgeport. This could be Warren opportunity to prove he belongs in the NHL. If he plays well, he could earn himself a permanent spot in the Islanders lineup.

Can Marshall Warren earn a spot on the Islanders blueline?

This is not the first time that Warren has played in the NHL this season. He appeared in two games in late October, registering two assists in his NHL debut against the Flyers. This should not come as much of a surprise, as Warren has played well in Bridgeport this season. In 10 games in the AHL, he had recorded two goals and seven assists for nine points. He currently ranks in the top ten on the team in both assists and points.

For the first time in his professional career, we are seeing his offensive ability shine. We are seeing him able to move the puck around and set up his teammates to put the puck in the back of the net. This shows that Warren has grown more accustomed to the speed of the professional game. He is playing with much more confidence and allowing his natural play style to shine. A sign that a player is ready for the NHL level.

Although we do not know how long Romanov will be out for, it is widely believed he will be out for an extended period. This gives Warren ample opportunity to prove that he belongs in the NHL. He will not feel pressured to produce immediately because his time is not limited. Instead, he can play his style of hockey and get properly adjusted. This will allow him to look more like the player he was in Bridgeport and make a strong impression.

With the struggles of the Islanders' blueline, it's not crazy to suggest that Warren can stay in the lineup whenever Romanov comes back. Especially considering he plays a similar game to Tony DeAngelo. Over the last few weeks, DeAngelo's play has gotten worse. According to Money Puck, the pairings that DeAngelo is on have an xGoals against of six and a shot attempts against per 60 minutes of 55.98. With him struggling, it makes more sense to play a young guy like Warren in his place.

It may seem like a long shot, but this could be the break that Warren has been waiting for. It could be the opportunity he needs to prove he can be a reliable NHL player.