Roy Criticizes Rantanen for Boarding Hit on Romanov

ELMONT, N.Y. – New York Islanders head coach Patrick Roy expressed anger toward Dallas Stars forward Mikko Rantanen after a dangerous hit during Tuesday night’s game. The incident occurred with less than 30 seconds remaining in the third period, with the Islanders leading 3-2.

Rantanen was ejected for a boarding call against Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov. Rantanen shoved Romanov from behind, causing him to crash face-first into the boards. Romanov lay motionless on the ice while trainers and teammates quickly rushed to assist him. He was helped off the ice and did not return.

Following the hit, Roy was seen yelling at Rantanen and the Stars’ bench. His frustration was evident as he referred to the hit as ‘disrespectful’ to the game. “When you see the numbers, you have to lay off. Everybody knows that. You can’t go through the guy,” Roy explained to reporters after the game.

Rantanen received a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for his actions. This was a surprising turn of events for the Stars, who nearly tied the game just moments later.

With the extra attacker on the ice, the Stars pushed hard to level the score. They thought they had tied it with just 0.1 seconds left when Wyatt Johnston scored. However, the goal was overturned after a league review determined there was goaltender interference involving Stars forward Jason Robertson.

Despite the chaotic finish, the Islanders secured the victory, improving their record to 5-1 during a six-game road trip, with one more game against the Detroit Red Wings ahead. Roy had no update on the status of Romanov, who is considered a key player for the Islanders.